Congress asked the Union government on Monday to immediately implement 'One Rank One Pension' for ex-servicemen who have been protesting over delay in implementing the policy.
Referring to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's announcement to implement the scheme, Congress spokesperson P L Punia asked when it would done.
"During (2014 Lok Sabha) poll campaign, they asserted they will allow One Rank, One Pension. But what happened now? In his radio programme Mann Ki Baat he says he will do it. Do it, but when? He should tell or whether this too will remain mere announcement? The ex-servicemen today find themselves cheated. Then UPA-II Government's decision should be implemented and we support the ex-servicemen's agitation. We are part of their fight," Punia said.
He also came down heavily on Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar's reported remarks that importance of Indian Army has gone down because it had not fought any war in past 40 years, saying the BJP leader should refrain from making such statements.
"Defence Ministry is a very sensitive Ministry. And the Minister must think well before speaking. He keeps giving such statements which are irresponsible and he should refrain from making such statements," he said.
Even Congress leader Digvijay Singh spoke on this issue and said it is the collective credibility of all politicians at stake over the implementation of OROP.
“One rank one pension is a commitment made to Defence Personnel by both UPA and NDA Govts. Can't go back on it.Collective Credibility of all Politicians & Political Parties at stake. Would PM show courage or it is another U Turn?” he said.
