The Odisha government has recently announced a new initiative providing a monthly pension of ₹20,000, along with additional benefits, for individuals who were imprisoned during the Emergency period. This was detailed in a notification released by the state home department.
On January 2, Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi introduced the plan to offer pensions to those who faced arrest and detention under the Maintenance of Internal Security Act or the Defence of India Rules during the Emergency from June 25, 1975, to March 21, 1977.
In addition to the pension, the government will also cover the medical expenses for these detainees. This support will extend to all eligible individuals who are still alive as of January 1, 2025.
During the Emergency, many individuals were incarcerated across the country for their opposition to the regime. According to the announcement, the pension will be available to all living persons as of January 1, 2025, regardless of how long they were detained. These individuals will also have access to free medical treatment based on the guidelines set by the health and family welfare department.
It is important to note that these benefits will take effect from January 1, 2025, and will not apply to any period prior to that date.
