In a series of protest demonstrations across Sindh, the Wafa Organization for the welfare of retired employees of Pakistan today appealed to the federal government to provide substantial relief to pensioners in the upcoming budget. The organization has demanded a 100% increase in pensions, citing the severe financial pressure on retirees due to rising inflation and the increase in the prices of basic necessities.
During the protest, representatives of the organization, including President Ahmed Salman Shaheen and Chief Organizer Shamsuddin Solangi, expressed concern over how current economic policies are increasing inflation, causing pensioners’ incomes to remain stagnant, which cannot meet basic expenses. They highlighted the rapid increase in the prices of food, medicine, utilities, education, and transport, which has pushed many retirees into severe financial difficulties.
Speakers at the demonstrations appealed to the federal government to implement a substantial increase in pensions to protect senior citizens from economic hardships. They also appealed for improvements in medical allowances and the restoration of group insurance to provide a dignified life for retired employees.
The protests, attended by thousands of retired workers, widows, and orphaned families from areas like Guddu, Jamshoro, and Kotri, highlighted the serious economic challenges faced by these communities. Protesters pointed out that despite the relentless increase in inflation over the years, pension adjustments have not kept pace, making it extremely difficult for many to survive.
Protesters demanded a resolution to the pension payment issues affecting retired WAPDA employees, appealing for their reintegration into WAPDA to streamline pension distribution and reduce administrative and financial complexities.
In their speeches, protest leaders emphasized that their demands are not for undue privileges but for the fulfillment of their constitutional rights. They appealed to the government to reduce unnecessary expenses and reallocate savings to support pensioners and other vulnerable sectors.
The Wafa Organization warned that if their demands are not included in the federal budget, there will be an increase in protest activities. They reaffirmed their commitment to pursue pensioners’ rights through democratic means and to resist any injustices against them.
The protest demonstrations were led by various regional leaders across Sindh, each appealing for the government’s urgent intervention to secure the financial and social welfare of millions of retired citizens.