Congress Takes Dig At Centre On Unified Pension Scheme: 'U' In UPS Stands For U-Turns'

Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge sharply criticised the Narendra Modi government over its recently approved 'Unified Pension Scheme' (UPS) for government employees.

In a post on the social media platform X, Kharge expressed his discontent with the government's policies, stating, "The 'U' in UPS stands for Modi Govt's U-turns! Post June 4, the power of the people has prevailed over the arrogance of power of the Prime Minister."

Photo Credit: PTI

He listed various government actions he considered rollbacks, such as the Long-Term Capital Gain/Indexation rollback in the budget, sending the Waqf Bill to the Joint Parliamentary Committee (JPC), and the rollbacks of both the Broadcast Bill and Lateral Entry.

Kharge concluded his post by asserting, "We will keep ensuring accountability and protect 140 crore Indians from this despotic government!"

The 'Unified Pension Scheme' was approved by the Centre on Saturday and was announced by Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw.

The scheme ensures that government employees will receive an assured pension amounting to 50% of the average basic pay drawn over the last 12 months prior to retirement, provided they have a minimum qualifying service of 25 years.

For those with a shorter service period, down to a minimum of 10 years, the pension will be proportionate. Additionally, the scheme offers an assured family pension calculated at 60 percent of the employee's pension at the time of their demise.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised the scheme, highlighting its importance in providing dignity and financial security to government employees, aligning with the government's commitment to their well-being.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah also lauded the scheme, stating, "Congratulations to our central government employees on the approval of the Unified Pension Scheme by PM Shri @narendramodi Ji in the Union Cabinet today. With the approval of the scheme, the Modi govt has reiterated its commitment to the financial security of our central government employees, who form the backbone of the nation's governance."

During the announcement, Vaishnaw was asked whether the government had sought permission from the Election Commission for the scheme's announcement, especially in light of upcoming assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir and Haryana.

Vaishnaw clarified that the UPS was not related to these elections.