Railway Employees Organize Nationwide Protests Demanding Old Pension Scheme

On Friday, railway employees from various wings organized gate meetings and protests at railway offices. Their primary demand was for the government to implement the Old Pension Scheme (OPS) and abolish the New Pension Scheme (NPS) in Indian Railways.

Watch Video Below:

Railway Employees Organize Nationwide Protests Demanding Old Pension Scheme pic.twitter.com/WHpbCjL1sM

— Hellobanker (@Hellobanker_in) July 14, 2024

Call to Action by Unions

The All India Railwaymen’s Federation (AIRF) and the South Central Railway Mazdoor Union (SCRMU) called for the protests. Union leaders staged demonstrations at railway offices stretching from Gudur to Anakapalli.

Participation of Union Leaders

Key figures from the SCRMU, including Vijayawada division president Rama Gupta, secretary Leela Mandapati, general secretary Ch. Shankar Rao, and other leaders, actively participated in the dharnas.

Rally and Slogan Raising

Employees conducted rallies and chanted slogans demanding the implementation of OPS. They emphasized the need for justice for the staff who have served Indian Railways for approximately 40 years.

Government Response and Future Actions

The Centre has scheduled talks with AIRF general secretary Shiva Gopal Mishra on July 15 to discuss the issue. Protestors warned that SCRMU would intensify the agitation if the discussions do not favor the employees.

Statements from Union Leaders

Rama Gupta stated, “We have achieved gratuity and other benefits for the employees through agitations. We will continue protests until NPS is scrapped.”