The stark contrast in how pensions are allocated in india exposes deep-rooted systemic inequalities. A common citizen can diligently work for 30 years, paying income tax and contributing to the nation’s economy, yet if they lose their job at 50, they are left without any social safety net. There is no universal pension scheme or unemployment support for most middle-class taxpayers, forcing them to depend entirely on personal savings or private retirement plans. This lack of state-backed financial security during old age creates immense anxiety for millions of hardworking indians who have done their duty by the nation, only to find themselves abandoned when they need support the most.
In sharp contrast stands the privilege enjoyed by elected representatives. An individual can become a Member of parliament (MP) for even a single day and qualify for a lifelong pension, regardless of whether they contributed anything in taxes or not. The pension amount increases with each term served, and MPs also enjoy a host of other lifetime perks such as free travel, subsidized accommodation, and medical benefits. This glaring disparity highlights how India's political class has systemically insulated itself from the hardships faced by ordinary citizens, creating a two-tiered system where those in power remain financially secure for life, while taxpayers must fend for themselves in retirement.
Such imbalances raise serious questions about fairness, accountability, and the priorities of governance. When citizens see their elected leaders securing lifelong benefits after minimal service, while they themselves are offered no safety cushion despite decades of contribution, it breeds frustration and distrust. There is a growing call for pension reforms that address these inequities and introduce a more balanced system—one where government support is based on need and contribution, not privilege. India’s democracy, to be truly representative, must ensure that the people who build the nation are not left to struggle in their twilight years while political elites enjoy undue lifelong benefits.
In sharp contrast stands the privilege enjoyed by elected representatives. An individual can become a Member of parliament (MP) for even a single day and qualify for a lifelong pension, regardless of whether they contributed anything in taxes or not. The pension amount increases with each term served, and MPs also enjoy a host of other lifetime perks such as free travel, subsidized accommodation, and medical benefits. This glaring disparity highlights how India's political class has systemically insulated itself from the hardships faced by ordinary citizens, creating a two-tiered system where those in power remain financially secure for life, while taxpayers must fend for themselves in retirement.
Such imbalances raise serious questions about fairness, accountability, and the priorities of governance. When citizens see their elected leaders securing lifelong benefits after minimal service, while they themselves are offered no safety cushion despite decades of contribution, it breeds frustration and distrust. There is a growing call for pension reforms that address these inequities and introduce a more balanced system—one where government support is based on need and contribution, not privilege. India’s democracy, to be truly representative, must ensure that the people who build the nation are not left to struggle in their twilight years while political elites enjoy undue lifelong benefits.
click and follow Indiaherald WhatsApp channel