Petitions Committee Report

Dear Colleagues,

There are still complaints that the ‘MS Word’ format of the Petitions Committee Report sent yesterday, had many over-writings and was not fully legible. A condensed version of the pdf version is attached for those who have not yet been able to read it.
We are making efforts to contact the media to highlight the report before it comes up for discussion in the Parliament in the next/Budget session.



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Best regards,


Lt Gen Raj Kadyan
Chairman IESM


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THE MUCH AWAITED RAJYA SABHA PETITION COMMITTEE REPORT ON GRANT OF OROP

Dear Friends,

Since IESM and other veterans were finding it difficult to circulate the Parliament’s Petition Committee Report on the internet, I reproduce below the email received from Maj Gen Satbir Singh, SM, Vice Chairman IESM.

While there is no doubt that it is the combined effort of so many ESM organisations, individual veterans and their families, many MPs and other honourable citizens of India who feel proud of the Indian Defence Forces, it is that constant push by IESM and returning of medals motivated by IESM that has punched a hole in the well planned defence by the Babus to prevent grant of OROP to Defence Services.

But there are many a slip between the cup and the lip. So keep your fingers crossed and pray hard.
It is time that many more ESM organisations and individual veterans join IESM and help in breaking out in the defences of the Babus who have been denying us OROP.

Those of you who know any MPs must go all out and ask those MPs to support the Indian Military Veterans in grant of OROP.
Those of you who know the persons in media must go all out to ensure that the Petition Committee Report is well publicised.

IT IS NOW OR NEVER

THEREFORE, LET US ALL STAND SHOULDER TO SHOULDER



&



AND SUPPORT IESM WHOLE HEARTEDLY, PHYSICALLY ON GROUND



AND WITH FUNDS



FOR TOTAL SUCCESS IN OUR FIGHT FOR GRANT OF OROP.





Vande Matram

In service of Indian Military Veterans

Chander Kamboj.

------------



From: Satbir Singh [satbirsm@gmail.com]
Sent: 20 December 2011 08:58
To: cs.kamboj@yahoo.in
Subject: OROP REPORT



THE MUCH AWAITED RAJYA SABHA PETITION COMMITTEE REPORT ON GRANT OF OROP

Dear veterans,

1. The Rajya Sabha Petition Committee for grant of OROP has tabled its report today at noon (19 Dec 11), which is enclosed.



2. We thank the Petition Committee members who have strongly recommended the grant of OROP immediately. The Committee has also not agreed to the contention put up by Govt. for denying OROP to the soldiers.



3. Above all, we thank Shree Rajeev Chandrasekhar for presenting the Petition on OROP in the Rajya Sabha.



4. Return of medals by veterans, which was initiated by IESM, finds a special mention in the report. The Committee is of the view that our defence personnel should not feel alienated to such an extent again that they are forced to surrender their hard-earned medals in this manner to exhibit their discontent with the Government policies.



5. When you read the report, you will find mention of Power Point Presentation and the aspects covered in the PPP have been mentioned in the report. This is to inform you that IESM was the only ESM organisation, which had made the PPP. Most of the issues raised by IESM have been included in the report. We do recognise the fact that it is the joint effort by all ESM organisations, which ensured that the Committee agreed to and strongly recommend the grant of OROP.



6. We hope, the Govt. honours the recommendations of the Petition Committee and grants the OROP immediately.



7. If the Govt. still does not sanction the OROP, the Protest Movement will be very strongly intensified. We will continue our struggle peacefully and in a dignified manner until justice is granted to the soldiers.



With Kind Regards,
Jai Hind

Yours Sincerely,
Maj Gen (Retd) Satbir Singh, SM
Vice Chairman Indian ESM Movement
Mobile: 9312404269, 0124-4110570
Email : satbirsm@yahoo.com

ESM sitrep 13 December evening

Dear Colleagues,
It is learnt that the Rajya Sabha Petitions Committee on OROP will have a final sitting on 16 December 2011 to adopt the report. Thereafter the Committee is expected to submit their report to the Parliament before the current session ends.


Lt Gen Raj Kadyan
Chairman IESM

ESM sitrep 12 December evening

Dear Colleagues,
There has been no further communication after 23 November from the Ministry of Defence on enhancement of the widows’ pension. We will rebuild pressure if nothing happens till December end.
16 December is Vijay Diwas. We will all remember and pay homage to our departed colleagues who laid down their lives in upholding security and integrity of the country, in the best traditions of the Services. At the national level, it had unfortunately remained an insignificant affair. However, thanks to the collective effort of the ESM community, the event has acquired some weight over the last three years.
On 3 December, Kameshwar Pandey and I had attended a function in memory of Captain Poonia, who had died in the Indo-Pak War during an attack on Night 3/4 December 1971. This 76 inches tall officer had been an outstanding sportsperson and his village (Bangothri, on the outlets of Pilani in Rajasthan), conducts a sports-meet in his memory; we were part of the inaugural. We interacted with many ESM on the occasion. Happily, quite a few pensioners are Sarpanches of their villages and are constructively active in society building. An outstanding example is of Havildar Mahabir Singh Tanghal, ARTY, who started an educational institution in Pilani in the Nineteen-Eighties after quitting prematurely. He now runs four such institutions from Nursery to PG and is doing excellent work in spreading literacy in the society. During our visit we noticed the focus on admitting the underprivileged children. He does the ESM community proud.
Some of us will be attending an ESM rally in Jhunjhunu on 16 December. All available indicators promise an enthusiastic response.
I have had my Yahoo mail hacked some time ago. (Undoubtedly, my own fault as I had not changed my password for long.) I have lost all contacts and all inbox contents after 18 November. I have switched over to a Gmail address as would be seen from this message.

Best regards,

Lt Gen Raj Kadyan
Chairman IESM

ESM sitrep 23 November evening

Dear Colleagues,
The IESM has been pushing for an enhancement in the widows’ pension, similar to what was given in the case of our JCO/OR pensioners following recommendations of the Cabinet Secretary’s Committee. In this connection, a delegation of widows accompanied by some of us had met the Defence Minister on 14 November 2011. (Sitrep dated 15 November 2011 refers). The Minister had assured us of his help.
The Defence Minister telephoned me earlier in the day today and informed me that he has cleared the pension enhancement of widows from his Ministry. That is a good development. Earlier, to our communications, the Defence Ministry had been sending a negative response citing some technical reasons. However, the new development is only a battle won in the long war. In the past, the Finance Ministry has been a big obstacle. We have yet to see how they react this time. We will continue building pressure until the demand is met. As already stated in our memorandum submitted to the Defence Minister on 14 November, in case the issue is not resolved by end December 2011, the widows would take a big delegation to 10 Janpath.

Best regards,


Lt Gen (Emeritus) Raj Kadyan, PVSM, AVSM, VSM
Chairman IESM
262, Sector-17A
Gurgaon- 122 001
Tele: 91+124-4015262
+919811226676

JAGO FAUJI JAGO 23rd Nov 2011

Dear Veterans




1. The present Government at the centre has not yet accepted our most important demand of OROP. Despite of our protest movement conducted peacefully within the norms of discipline for the past over forty months, the Government has shown no positive consideration to our demands. In a Vishal Rally held at Jantar Mantar organized under the aegis of IESM where ESM and Defense Widows from across the country (18 states) took part, the following resolution was unanimously passed by raising of hands by all present without exception and renting the air with their approval:-




(a) Since the present Government at the Centre has not granted OROP, it has no right to ask for votes from Defense Personnel and their family members.

(b) Accordingly the Defense veterans resolved unanimously that they will not vote for the UPA in any future election either at the State or Centre.

(c) However, if OROP is granted by the Government, this resolution will be null and void or withdrawn.




2. It was also decided to hold rallies in States to Garner support from the Defense fraternity and also other segments of society and organizations. It was decided to initially hold these rallies where elections are taking place in the near future. Accordingly all ESM organizations and ESM in the States and UTs are requested to “Unite” for the cause of OROP which is applicable to all present and future ESM forgetting differences if any, and give wide publicity to the contents of the above resolution across the length, breadth and depth of the country to exert the right pressure on the Government to accept our demand. The states which are going in for election are Punjab, UP, Utrakahand and Himachal, and later Rajasthan, MP and Haryana.




3. One Rally each at the State Capital and other cities where Defense personnel stay in large numbers are being planned. We would require logistic support in kind or in funds to conduct these rallies. All ESM are requested to contribute generously in kind (Transport, Rally Site arrangements, meals, refreshments, tea, water etc) or in funds to enable us to make these rallies a grand success. The cheques may please be made in the name of Indian Ex Servicemen Movement (HDFC A/C No 06162000001330) and either deposit in any branch of the HDFC or send at IESM HQ address “543 Sector 23 Gurgaon (Haryana) 122017.




4. The first of the rallies is being planned at TRICITY (Chandigarh- Mohali - Panchkula) in Dec 2011. The exact date is being finalized in consultation with convener IESM Punjab. The rally in UP at Lucknow has also been planned on 09 Jan 2012.




5. Another aspect which I wish to bring to the notice of all veteran officers for their consideration is about the negligible presence of officers at the rallies. Like in service, the dictum of leading from the front is equally applicable in the lives of Defense Veterans. The veteran JCOs and men still look up to the officers as their leaders to assist them. I am reminded of a fine act of duty which we learnt and executed with scrupulous honesty 45 years back which I am sure was continuing from the past traditions ie as Gunner GPO at the Gun position, I did not take my evening meal till such time all the gun pits had been dug, the guns had been put in the gun pits and all men had had their meals. It had a very strong effect on our men. I implore upon all officers to let us be part of this protest movement to get OROP which has been denied to us for the past over 30 years. Please attend all rallies being held in your city/ district. This is a humble request to my brother officers. All those who cannot attend due to any pressing reasons, please contribute generously to make the protest Movement achieve its goals. History reveals that Movements succeeded when all affected with the cause joined in unison with “Passion in the Heart” and “Fire in the Belly”. “JAGO FAUJI JAGO Join the Protest Movement to Get Justice for Defense Forces”.





6. This letter may please be circulated to the maximum ESM organizations and ESM.





“ZINDGI MILTI RAHE MAR MAR KE MUJH KO BAR BAR,
AUR HOTA RAHOON HAR BAR KURBANE WATTAN”

With Regards,

Jai Hind

Yours Sincerely,

Maj Gen (Retd) Satbir Singh, SM
Vice Chairman Indian Ex Servicemen Movement
Mobile: 9312404269, 0124-4110570

Email: satbirsm@yahoo.com

PRESS RELEASE “DEFENCE VETERANS AGAINST INJUSTICE”,NEW DELHI ON 12th NOV 2011

PRESS RELEASE
“DEFENCE VETERANS AGAINST INJUSTICE”,
DEPOSIT MEDALS AND SIGN MEMORANDUM IN BLOOD
VISHAL RALLY AT JANTAR MANTAR
NEW DELHI ON 12th NOV 2011
Dear Members of the Media

1. Defence Veteran’s peaceful protest Movement throughout the country for the past over forty months, deposit of over 22000 Gallantry and Distinguished service medals and Memorandums signed in their blood by over one lac and fifty thousand defence veterans to the Supreme Commander the President of India and numerous letters and meetings with the Prime Minister, Raksha Mantri and other authorities, the Govt at the Centre has not accepted their genuine demands, their main demand being “One Rank One Pension” (OROP). It seems that the Govt. yields only to non peaceful agitations. The defence veteran’s are getting restless now and their patience is running out and before some misguided and volatile elements resort to unacceptable methods, the Govt. should grant their justified demands.

2. The Defence Veterans, their families and supporters have now resolved to intensify their protest Movement across the country to highlight the grave injustice which the Govt at Centre is doing to them by not accepting their genuine demands in total disregard to the services rendered by the erstwhile soldiers. The graver injustice has been done to the Defence Widows who are in receipt of family pension, by excluding them from the ambit of enhancement of pensions of JCOs and Other Ranks carried out in Mar 2010. Thus the weakest and the neediest segment of pensioners was leftout. The discrimination against the widows has caused great consternation among the entire Ex Servicemen community. The case was taken up with the Prime Minister by the IESM for extending the enhancement of pension to the Defence Widows; the same has not been carried out so far.

3. The Govt’s indifferent attitude towards the Defence Forces is unexplainable especially keeping in mind the hostile environment prevailing on our borders both at land and sea. A nation to survive in such hostile environment has to keep its forces well equipped, well trained, motivated and contented. It needs to be understood that service veterans are the extension of service personnel. Any injustice to the veterans also adversely affects the serving soldiers who will be the future veterans. These aspects need to the holistically addressed by the Govt.

4. Out of the cases filed in various AFTs, over 90 percent in have been won by the Defence Personnel in the last one year, but Govt is yet to implement the judgements. The recommendatory AFGRC ordered by the Supreme Court which was to be affective with effect from 15 Jan 2011 has been dispensed with by the Govt. The SC had passed this judgement after deliberating upon the illtreatement being meted out to the Defence Personnel by the Govt.

5. A petition filed by independent MP of Rajaya Sabha Sh. Rajeeve Chandersekhar was being heard by the Petition Committee of the Rajaya Sabha. The Govt is not mentioning any thing about the Committee while giving reply to the question being raised by MPs regarding the non grant of OROP. They continue to quote two years old Committee of Secretaries.

6. The Govt has not also paid any heed to the recommendations of All Party Standing Committee on Defence Comprising 31 MPs strongly recommending OROP three times in the last one year. The way the Govt treats the recommendation of the Parliamentary Committees and gives credence to the Report of Committee of secretaries who are biased against the Defence Forces speak of the apathy of the Govt has towards the Defence Forces.

7. A Vishal Rally will be held by the Defence Veterans at Jantar Mantar New Delhi on 12th Nov 2011 from 10 AM to 3 PM under the aegis of Indian Ex -Servicemen Movement (IESM) to peacefully protest against the Govt apathy and negative attitude towards their genuine demands. Thereafter, a delegation will leave for Rashtrapati Bhawan to deposit medals and memorandum signed in blood to the President. Lt Gen Raj Kadyan, PVSM,AVSM,VSM, Chairman IESM has already written to the President to accept the medals and the Memorandum herself by granting audience to the delegation of Defence veterans. The Military Veterans have also decided that incase the president herself does not accept the medals and the Memorandum, they will bring these back.

8. The media is cordially invited for the event and is requested to cover it extensively to bring to the notice of the people of India the ill-treatment being meted out to the Military by the Govt for which they hold the bureaucracy mainly responsible.

With Regards,

Jai Hind
Yours Sincerely,

Maj Gen (Retd) Satbir Singh, SM
Vice Chairman Indian ESM Movement
Mobile: 9312404269, 0124-4110570
Email: satbirsm@gmail.com

REPORT OF RALLY ON 12 NOVEMBER 2011 SATURDAY AT JANTAR MANTAR by Gp Capt Gandhi

LT GEN (EMERITUS) RAJ KADYAN PVSM,AVSM AND VSM ADDRESSING THE RALLY
Brig Luktuke from Pune getting the Blood signatures from the Veteran's women Folk


Gp Capt VK Gandhi giving blood for the signatures



REPORT OF RALLY ON 12 NOVEMBER 2011 SATURDAY AT JANTAR MANTAR

Dear Veterans

The rally started at 1000h on 12 November 2011 Saturday at Jantar Mantar. By 1100h the venue was full.

The rally was attended by more than 3000 ex-servicemen from sepoys to Generals and more than 100 families. Veterans' of all three services recorded their presence and protest against the policies of the Government. The mood in the rally was upbeat and all veterans exuded confidence and thanked IESM for taking up the problems of ex-servicemen and bringing them to the center stage. Ex-servicemen were very appreciative of the help being given by the pension, ECHS and CSD div of IESM. In general all had exhorted the IESM leadership to continue the fight on behalf of ex-servicemen and their families with the Government till their demands were accepted by the Government. They all supported the method of protest of depositing the medals with the President and vowed to remain peaceful and within the bounds of law in our protest morchas and rallies.

The delegation from following states attended the rally.
1. Andhra Pradesh
2. Bihar
3. Chandigarh
4. Delhi
5. Gujrat
6. Haryana
7. Himachal Pradesh
8. Jharkhand
9. Jammu & Kashmir
10. Kerala
11. Madhya Pradesh
12. Maharashtra
13. Punjab
14. Rajasthan
15. Tamil Nadu
16. Uttarkhand
17. Uttar Pradesh


Speakers; more than 25 speakers including women speakers addressed the rally. They exhorted the Governing body of IESM to increase pressure on the Government and confirmed their resolve that ex-servicemen would not accept anything less than full OROP. 84 year Sub Sharma came from Sangrur and addressed the rally.

Gist of Speeches; All the speakers were applauded by the crowd. All speakers encouraged the IESM to continue the fight for fulfillment of demands of ex-servicemen and fight for justice and equality. Speakers after speaker blamed the Government for the poor state of ex-servicemen and their families. All present shouted that we would not rest till OROP is granted for all ORs, JCOs and officers'.

Speakers were thankful to IESM, that on representation of IESM Government had accepted that in all future correspondence on behalf of the Government only the word JCO and OR would be used and the acronym PBOR would not be used. This decision was hailed by all present.

Speakers also criticized the Government policies of neglecting the defense personnel after extracting juice from their life and thereafter forgetting them. Army personnel are forced to retire after service of 20 years and at the age of 37 to 40 years. This is the time in their life when they have maximum responsibilities and have old parents to look after but are without a job and on meager pension. It should be the responsibility of the Government to give them job till 60 years of age as is the case of all Government employees.

Speakers warned all present and the ex-servicemen community at large to be very careful from few disgruntled veterans, who had been expelled from IESM for their anti IESM activities. These veterans were spreading rumors and were collecting funds on the name of IESM. This activity by these expelled veterans was a fraud on the ex-servicemen community. All ex-servicemen were requested to give membership fee and donations only by cheque in favour of IESM a/c no 06162000001330.

Speakers also expected more improvement in ECHS and canteen facilities where in they wanted these services to be extended to all the ex-servicemen in villages, where bulk of the ex-servicemen settle after retirement.

All the speakers were unanimous in demanding more pension for widows. They expressed that the widows were the most neglected segment of ex-servicemen family. It was surprising that the Govt did not pay any attention to the widow of a soldier who had given his life for protecting the nation.

Maj Gen Satbir Singh SM, Vice Chairman of IESM; Maj Gen Satbir Singh recounted the sacrifices made by the ex-servicemen and asked the Government that why did a sepoy who had fought in 1962 against the Chinese army, in 1965 and 1971 against the Pakistani army, in 1999 in Kargil war should get less pension than the sepoy who was retiring today or after 1 Jan 2006. He roared and wanted answer to the following questions from the Government.

Had their sacrifices been less than the sacrifices made by soldiers who are retiring today?
Was their life less important than the one's retiring or serving today?
Were they lesser citizens of Mother India than the one's retiring today?
Were their families lesser citizens of Mother India than the families of the one are retiring today?
Did those soldiers and heroes faced softer bullets than the one's facing today?
Did they live in better conditions than the one's living today?
Did they serve Mother India less than the one's serving today?

If answer to all of the above questions was NO then why should, the army personnel who retired earlier than the 1 Jan 2006, draw less pension than the army personnel who were retiring today? He questioned the Government that even Supreme Court had accepted that Government could not give different pension based on their date of retirement to the two army personnel of the same rank and length of service. He exhorted all present to go back to their villages and unite all your brothers so that we could put up a united fight against the policies of the Government. He further said that the Government only listens to vote bank and with our numbers of 22 lac ex-servicemen we can influence a vote bank of more than one crore votes hence we should all get united and force the Government to accept our demands. He invited all ex-servicemen associations in India to come forward and join hands with IESM and fight for the right of ex-servicemen. He exhorted all present and asked if a Govt does not grant OROP; Does it have a right to get our vote. All shouted back NO, NO, NO, absolute NO. He asked all to vote for the party and candidate who promises to support and ask his party to grant OROP to ex-servicemen, all raised their hands and supported the resolution. He asked do we pass the resolution today that all ex-servicemen would vote for only that party which would grant us the OROP. All present raised their hands in support of the resolution and vowed that they support the resolution. He asked do we pass the resolution that ex-servicemen would not vote for UPA (congress party and its allied parties) since they had steadfastly opposed and did not give OROP to Ex-servicemen. General Satbir Singh informed the audience that together we have about 4 crore votes and can easily influence the result of 65 to 70 parliamentary constituencies and about 250 legislative assembly seats. It was important for all of us to understand the power of our vote and use it in support of our demands.
The following important resolutions were unanimously passed by raising hands by all attendees with words “Jai Hind” and – Yes, renting the air:-
(a) Ex-servicemen would continue with their struggle till their demands are met.
(b) Ex-servicemen would not take back the medals already deposited with the president but will continue to deposit the more medals in future.
(c) The parties in power in the States would be requested to support their demand of OROP and have a resolution passed in their State Assemblies. If they did not do so, the Party in power in the State would have no right to ask for the ‘Votes’ ex- servicemen in any future elections.
(d) The present party in power (UPA) has not granted OROP (the just demand of Ex- servicemen). Ex-servicemen therefore vowed not to vote for UPA (Congress party and allied parties) in next election. The ex-servicemen would be voting for any party/candidate which would promise to give OROP to ex-servicemen.

He said that today was a very sad day in the history of India, because an army person who had never hesitated to give his blood for the Mother India was forced to sign a memorandum with his blood to the President (Supreme commander of defense forces in India). He said this was because our supreme commander, on whose order we had all given our life and blood to protect the integrity of our Mother land, had refused to listen to our legitimate demands.

He also informed the gathering that ex-servicemen had deposited 22000 medals at six occasions to the President for safe custody as mark of protest till our demand of OROP was granted by the Govt. Another 8000 medals were held with IESM as these had not been accepted by the Madame President in person. Approx 3000 medals had been received today for depositing with the President. These were on display for the world to see and note that the Supreme commander of armed forces whom ex-servicemen had served without asking a question and gave our life had disowned us and has even refused to meet the ex-servicemen.

Gen Satbir Singh informed the house that there was no shortage of funds with the Government but refusing to pay the ex-servicemen and the widows. It was a very sad day in history of India. This policy of the Government had lowered the morale of forces and veterans.

He roared and asked all to join in this fight for our rights and make the Government realize that ex-servicemen were very unhappy and angry with the treatment being given to them.
All present roared back and shouted that Gen Satbir tum lado hum tumhare saathe hain.

Lt General (Emeritus) Raj Kadyan PVSM,AVSM and VSM Chairman of IESM; Lt Gen Raj Kadyan informed all that our novel method of protest had been very effective and Government, for the first time, had accepted the principle of OROP in the speech of the President in both houses of Parliament. This could be possible only because of insurmountable pressure created by IESM by depositing the medals to the President time and again. He informed all present that he had been getting hints through many officials that the Government had enhanced pension of ex-servicemen hence ex-servicemen should now honorably take back the medals. He asked all present if they were satisfied with whatever the Government had given and all shouted back NO, NO, NO. All present further shouted that we would not take the medals back till OROP for all ex-servicemen was approved by the Government.

Gen Kadyan informed all that ex-servicemen were only depositing the medals for safe custody with the President as mark of unhappiness and protest for government's refusal to accept their genuine and long pending demand of OROP. We would honorably take back our medals as and when our demand of OROP was approved by the Government. Ex-servicemen can continue using the decorations and continue to enjoy all benefits which go with the medal as we are only depositing the medals and not repeat not returning them.

Gen Raj Kadyan informed the august gathering that on three different occasions Parliamentary committee on defense has recommended OROP for ex-servicemen but the bureaucracy has refused to accept this recommendation. Now another committee called the petition committee, (under the leadership of Sh Bhagat Singh Koshiari MP Rajya Sabha) had been constituted to study the demands of ex-servicemen and give recommendation on the demand of OROP of ex-servicemen on the petition of honorable MP (Rajya Sabha) Sh Rajeev Chandrashekhar. IESM and other organizations had made strong presentation to the committee in favor of OROP. This committee would be submitting its report to the Parliament in winter session starting from 22 Nov 11. He was hopeful that the report of petition committee was likely to favor OROP. Sh Chandra Shekhar MP Rajya Sabha was of the opinion that the success rate of the petition committee recommendation being accepted by the Government was very high.

Genral Kadyan further stated that it was beyond our comprehension that while granting increase in pension for our ORs and JCOs the Government completely forgot our widow sisters. IESM had written a letter to the Government and also met the RM but it did not yield results. Thereafter He wrote to Madam Sonia Gandhi and requested her to meet a delegation of 200 widows. Madam Sonia Gandhi's office had confirmed that she had still not recovered from the illness and hence was not in a position to accept the delegation of widows. Her office had directed the delegation to meet the RM. A delegation of widows numbering 10 members would now be meeting the RM on 14 November and he was hopeful that widows would soon get justice and increase in pension.

General Kadyan made a point that a soldier should be able to cast his vote on the place of his posting. Voting was fundamental right of every citizen of India it was not understood as why Government was constantly denying this fundamental right to the soldiers of India. He further announce that IESM would support this plan of voting on the place of posting by the soldier but it would be the responsibility of the Army HQ to register name of every soldier on his place of posting. This would enhance our voting strength and soldiers would have a greater say in policies of the country. Ex-servicemen would then be able to exert more pressure on the Government in favor of our demands.

Gen Kadyan further informed the gathering that the fight for OROP with the Government would be long and difficult. Ex-servicemen would have to keep patience and prepare for a long fight. He said it was difficult to give any time frame for the approval of OROP but he was very confident that our resolve and perseverance, to keep increasing the pressure on Government, would certainly bear fruit and OROP would be granted sooner than later. He informed that the countrymen had now understood the difficulties of the ex-servicemen and were sympathetic to our demands. This was evident by the court cases being disposed in favor of the ex-servicemen.
He reminded the ex-servicemen that the protest would remain peaceful and within the bounds of law. Ex-servicemen enjoyed a very special place in society and have a very good image of a disciplined person in the society. We would ensure that this image was maintained as society looked up to ex-servicemen as a strong and a model citizen.

He informed the gathering that IESM had deposited 22000 medals at five different occasions. Every time IESM delegation was met by a junior officer at the Rashtrapati Bhavan despite our request to Madam President to accept the medals herself. This time also he had written to the President to accept the medals in person from the delegation and give us the date and time for the meeting. He had not received any reply and hence he had written to the Rashtrapati Bhavan that IESM would be constrained to go to the press and people of the country and inform them that, the Supreme Commander under whose order soldiers happily lay down their life, had declined to even grant an audience to the brave soldiers and had refused to listen to their litany of woes. However a memorandum on behalf of the ex-servicemen would be handed over to the staff at Rashtrapati bhavan. The gathering approved this plan with a loud uproar.

The Gathering shouted slogans
OROP le ke rahenge le ke rahenge.
Fouji ekta zindabad zindabad.

Chairman thanked all for coming for the rally despite their other pressing works.

Medal Deposit; The table was handled by veteran Hony Lt Kameshwar Pandy. Ex-servicemen enthusiastically and voluntarily deposited their medals. A total of 3000 medals were collected including the ones received from various states, brought by their representatives. The medals were displayed proudly for all to see that Supreme Commander had even refused to grant an audience to her loyal soldiers.

Signature in Blood campaign; This table was handled by Brig Luktuke and veterans representing Pune Maharashtra. Veterans' were voluntarily queuing up to sign in their blood on the memorandum. Widows were more enthusiastic to sigh and register their agony against the Government apathy to their problem. There was not even a single minute free on this table and by 1300h more than 400 veterans had come forward voluntarily for withdrawal of blood signatures.

Admin arrangements; Water, tea and lunch arrangements were made for the gathering. It was appreciated by the veterans. All members of the Core group whole heartedly participated in making the rally comfortable for the veterans.

Press coverage; Press and media in India and abroad covered the event. INDIA TV, Day & Night news and PTC channels were present in full form and had recorded the proceedings of the rally. World media has also reported the event.

Membership; More than 200 members joined IESM during the rally.

Donations; IESM is very thankful to all veterans who had wholeheartedly contributed funds for the rally. IESM appreciates the contribution of all veterans and expressed that this money would be put to intensify the struggle for OROP and realizing the dreams of all veterans and widows.

IESM gives special thanks to Hony Brig A Lal Padam-shree,MD Dr Lal's Path lab, who sponsored the blood signature campaign with equipment and specialist medical cover from Dr Lal's Path lab.

IESM thanks all the veterans in making the rally successful.

IESM thanks all the veterans for donating generously for the cause of ex-servicemen.

THE FIGHT FOR OROP IS LIKELY TO BE LONG AND DIFFICULT. IESM REQUESTS ALL THE VETERANS' AND SUPPORTERS TO DONATE GENEROUSLY FOR VETERANS' CAUSE. PLEASE MAKE THE CHEQUES IN FAVOUR OF 'INDIAN EX-SERVICEMEN MOVEMENT A/C NO 06162000001330.

The Rally was closed at 1500h.

Gp Capt VK Gandhi VSM
Gen Sec IESM
L - 48, Sector - 25,
NOIDA. 201301
Tele no 01202519440
Mobile 09810541222
13 November 2011

Pls see IESM latest NEWS on http://www.iesm. org

IF YOU SEE SOMEONE WITHOUT A SMILE GIVE HIM ONE OF YOURS.

REPORTS OF THE RALLY COVERED BY NEWS PAPERS IS GIVEN ON NEXT PAGE



REPORT FROM INDIAN EXPRESS PUNE


SOME IMPORTANT PICTURES OF THE RALLY HELD AT JANTAR MANTAR
ON 12 NOVEMBER 2011 FROM 1000H TO 1500H

ESM sitrep 18 Nov evening

Dear Colleague
Today, 18 November is Rezang La Day. On this day in 1962, ‘C’ Company of 13 KUMAON had fought the classical ‘last man last round’ battle on the icy heights in Ladakh, where the Battalion had been deployed to defend against Chinese approach to Chushul airfield. In one of the fiercest battles of defence, heavily outnumbered, with outmoded .303 rifles and without artillery support, of the gritty 124 Ahirs, 114 had made the supreme sacrifice. The dead bodies were recovered much later in summer months, with almost everyone still clutching his weapon and in his trench. The 3 in Mor detachment crew still held bombs in their hands, with their bodies pieced by bullets and shrapnel. The Nursing Assistant’s body was found with him holding a bandage and syringe in either hand. The three men on the ‘listening post’ – two brothers and their brother-in-law were found dead on the very spot they were occupying. All martyrs had died doing their assigned task – in action. Their Company Commander Major Shaitan Singh was awarded the well-deserved PVC, posthumously.
Most men of ‘C’ Company hailed from Mahendragarh area in Haryana. They held a memorial service today – as they do every year – and had given me the honour of being the Chief Guest; Kameshwar Pandey from the Governing Body had also accompanied. On the occasion over 300 ESM and some families had assembled. The families were mostly the widows of Rezang La martyrs. The most notable event was the recounting of the battle by Hav Gaje Singh, Hav Mool Chand and Nb Sub Ram Kumar. They were all part of the historic action and are among the few survivors. Gaje Singh is popularly known as LMG 1, an appendage he carries with just pride.

Best regards,


Lt Gen (Emeritus) Raj Kadyan, PVSM, AVSM, VSM
Chairman IESM
262, Sector-17A
Gurgaon- 122 001
Tele: 91+124-4015262

Letter to AG by IESM

Lt Gen Raj Kadyan, PVSM, AVSM, VSM (Retd)
Chairman
262, Sector-17A, Gurgaon – 122 001
Mobile: 09811228878
Email: rajkadyan@yahoo.com

IESM/ECHS/11 17 Nov 2011

Dear General,

I am attaching an account of Major Pancholi’s ill health. He served in 9 SIKH before being boarded out with 50% disability incurred due to Service hazards. It will be a befitting gesture for the Army to take care of his medical problems in whatever manner considered appropriate. It will send a very positive signal that the system cares.

With best regards,
Yours sincerely,



Raj Kadyan
Lt Gen JP Nehra
Adjutant General
Integrated Headquarters of the MoD (Army)
South Block
New Delhi – 110 011

ESM sitrep 17 Nov evening ..Letter To Mrs Sonia Gandhi

Dear Colleagues,
As part of ongoing IESM efforts, copies of following letters are attached for information:
1. Letter to Mrs Sonia Gandhi dated 17 Oct 2011 about OROP
2. Memo to Defence Minister dated 14 Nov 2011 about widows’ pension
3. Letter to AG dated 17 Nov 2011about treatment of Maj Pancholi (Retd) 9 SIKH

Best regards,


Lt Gen (Emeritus) Raj Kadyan, PVSM, AVSM, VSM
Chairman IESM
262, Sector-17A

**********Letter to Mrs Sonia Gandhi************************************************
Lt Gen Raj Kadyan, PVSM, AVSM, VSM
Chairman
262, Sector-17A, Gurgaon – 122 001
Mobile-9811226676
rajkadyan@yahoo.com

IESM/OROP/2011 17 October 2011

Dear Hon’ble Congress President,

I write this in connection with the long pending demand of ‘one rank one pension’ (OROP). It is a simple demand that says two defence pensioners who have retired from the same rank after equal length of service, should get the same pension, irrespective of their date of retirement. The demand is based on the principle of equity and justice.

OROP has been on the simmer for nearly three decades. It gathered fresh momentum in 2008 after the 6th pay Commission report came out. Faced with government obduracy the veterans were compelled to go public with their demand. In frustration they have had to even deposit their medals with their Supreme Commander. They intend to continue their struggle till OROP is sanctioned.

There are over two million Defence veterans in the country. Each one of them, without exception, supports the demand for OROP. The serving personnel, as future veterans, also support OROP though rules forbid them from expressing it openly. OROP has been repeatedly recommended by different Parliamentary Standing Committees. Several political parties have lent support to the demand; some States have even passed resolutions in their Assemblies to this effect. Many individual Members of Parliament cutting across Party lines have also expressed their support in private. All this leads to the inevitable inference that only the Congress-led Central government is stonewalling the demand.

OROP evokes strong sentiments among the affected. It is only natural that the issue would influence the voting choice of present and future veterans, as also of their families, relatives and of their influence groups both in the Assembly and Parliamentary elections. I urge you to consider this and take a call.

With best regards,

Yours sincerely,



Lt Gen Raj Kadyan


Smt Sonia Gandhi
President Indian National Congress
10 Janpath
New Delhi

ESM sitrep 15 November evening

Dear Colleagues,
A delegation of widows accompanied by some of us (total 12 members) called on the Defence Minister in his office on 14 Nov. This meeting was at the behest of Mrs Sonia Gandhi: a delegation of 200 widows was to meet her Nov 12, but as she is still not fit enough for such commitments, she had advised the Defence Minister to meet their representatives. The meeting aimed at seeking removal of discrimination against the widows and implementing a hike in their pension as was done in case of JCOs and OR following recommendations of the Cabinet Secretary’s Committee.
It was a good, unhurried meeting where the widows had their full say. The Minister sounded very sympathetic and promised to have a meeting of the concerned officials of his Ministry to resolve the issue of widows’ pension. A memorandum was then handed over to the Minster. It ended by saying that in case there was no positive response from the government by end of December 2011, the widows would revive their plans to meet with Ms Sonia Gandhi.
Subedar Major and Hony Captain Hari Singh of 3 GRENADIERS was a hero of the battle of Basantar in 1971 war. He had commanded a platoon in ‘C’ Coy under Major Hoshiar Singh, PVC, had lost a leg and was awarded Sena Medal. (Also had been Commended twice by the COAS). Hari Singh expired on 15 November 2010 and on his first death anniversary, they have installed a statue in his native village Salhawas in Jhajjar District. They had given the honour of unveiling the statue to Chairman IESM. Kameshwar Pandey had accompanied. On the occasion some 250 ESM had gathered from nearby areas and it was a good interaction.
Notably, the politicians were earlier unveiling such memorial statues of our heroes. After the recent awakening among the ESM to assert their rights, the veterans have now started doing this honour.

Best regards,


Lt Gen (Emeritus) Raj Kadyan, PVSM, AVSM, VSM
Chairman IESM
262, Sector-17A
Gurgaon- 122 001
Tele: 91+124-4015262

ESM sitrep 12 November evening

Dear Colleagues,
The planned IESM rally was held today at Jantar Mantar, New Delhi. It had more than 2500 ESM and Service families from all over the country. There was palpable enthusiasm in support of continuing with our struggle for seeking justice for the ESM, fronted by OROP. There was also unanimity in demanding that we the ESM start using out voting strength in getting our just demands accepted.
A memorandum was thereafter submitted to the President highlighting the non-grant of OROP and discrimination against widows in not including them in the pension enhancement that was implemented in 2009.
Kudos to Maj Gen Satbir Singh, Group Captain Vinod Gandhi, Wing Commander CK Sharma and other team members for organizing the event in an excellent manner.


Best regards,


Lt Gen (Emeritus) Raj Kadyan, PVSM, AVSM, VSM
Chairman IESM
262, Sector-17A
Gurgaon- 122 001
Tele: 91+124-4015262
+919811226676

Press Release Nov 12 Rally Jantar Mantar

DATED: 09 Nov 2011

PRESS RELEASE

“DEFENCE VETERANS AGAINST INJUSTICE”,

DEPOSIT MEDALS AND SIGN MEMORANDUM IN BLOOD

VISHAL RALLY AT JANTAR MANTAR

NEW DELHI ON 12th NOV 2011

Dear Members of the Media



1. Defence Veteran’s peaceful protest Movement throughout the country for the past over forty months, deposit of over 22000 Gallantry and Distinguished service medals and Memorandums signed in their blood by over one lac and fifty thousand defence veterans to the Supreme Commander the President of India and numerous letters and meetings with the Prime Minister, Raksha Mantri and other authorities, the Govt at the Centre has not accepted their genuine demands, their main demand being “One Rank One Pension” (OROP). It seems that the Govt. yields only to non peaceful agitations. The defence veteran’s are getting restless now and their patience is running out and before some misguided and volatile elements resort to unacceptable methods, the Govt. should grant their justified demands.



2. The Defence Veterans, their families and supporters have now resolved to intensify their protest Movement across the country to highlight the grave injustice which the Govt at Centre is doing to them by not accepting their genuine demands in total disregard to the services rendered by the erstwhile soldiers. The graver injustice has been done to the Defence Widows who are in receipt of family pension, by excluding them from the ambit of enhancement of pensions of JCOs and Other Ranks carried out in Mar 2010. Thus the weakest and the neediest segment of pensioners was leftout. The discrimination against the widows has caused great consternation among the entire Ex Servicemen community. The case was taken up with the Prime Minister by the IESM for extending the enhancement of pension to the Defence Widows; the same has not been carried out so far.



3. The Govt’s indifferent attitude towards the Defence Forces is unexplainable especially keeping in mind the hostile environment prevailing on our borders both at land and sea. A nation to survive in such hostile environment has to keep its forces well equipped, well trained, motivated and contented. It needs to be understood that service veterans are the extension of service personnel. Any injustice to the veterans also adversely affects the serving soldiers who will be the future veterans. These aspects need to the holistically addressed by the Govt.



4. Out of the cases filed in various AFTs, over 90 percent in have been won by the Defence Personnel in the last one year, but Govt is yet to implement the judgements. The recommendatory AFGRC ordered by the Supreme Court which was to be affective with effect from 15 Jan 2011 has been dispensed with by the Govt. The SC had passed this judgement after deliberating upon the illtreatement being meted out to the Defence Personnel by the Govt.



5. A petition filed by independent MP of Rajaya Sabha Sh. Rajeeve Chandersekhar was being heard by the Petition Committee of the Rajaya Sabha. The Govt is not mentioning any thing about the Committee while giving reply to the question being raised by MPs regarding the non grant of OROP. They continue to quote two years old Committee of Secretaries.



6. The Govt has not also paid any heed to the recommendations of All Party Standing Committee on Defence Comprising 31 MPs strongly recommending OROP three times in the last one year. The way the Govt treats the recommendation of the Parliamentary Committees and gives credence to the Report of Committee of secretaries who are biased against the Defence Forces speak of the apathy of the Govt has towards the Defence Forces.



7. A Vishal Rally will be held by the Defence Veterans at Jantar Mantar New Delhi on 12th Nov 2011 from 10 AM to 3 PM under the aegis of Indian Ex -Servicemen Movement (IESM) to peacefully protest against the Govt apathy and negative attitude towards their genuine demands. Thereafter, a delegation will leave for Rashtrapati Bhawan to deposit medals and memorandum signed in blood to the President. Lt Gen Raj Kadyan, PVSM,AVSM,VSM, Chairman IESM has already written to the President to accept the medals and the Memorandum herself by granting audience to the delegation of Defence veterans. The Military Veterans have also decided that incase the president herself does not accept the medals and the Memorandum, they will bring these back.



8. The media is cordially invited for the event and is requested to cover it extensively to bring to the notice of the people of India the ill-treatment being meted out to the Military by the Govt for which they hold the bureaucracy mainly responsible.



With Regards,



Jai Hind

Yours Sincerely,







Maj Gen (Retd) Satbir Singh, SM

Vice Chairman Indian ESM Movement

REJOINDER FOR RUMOURS

Dear All VETERANS


It is very unfortunate that some irresponsible veterans are spreading rumours about the existence of IESM and its well meaning actions. These disgruntled veterans are responsible for veterans being divided in small fractions and not able to unite as one single force. I normally do not give any credence to rumours but I am constrained to issue clarification because these rumours are being spread to neutralise the planned rally of IESM on the 12 November at Jantar Mantar.


Few member of IESM had been suspended from the primary membership of IESM because of indiscipline and not keeping the accounts properly. These few disgruntled ex-servicemen have started a breakaway group of ex-servicemen. Sep DS Sheoran calls himself as the President and Col K Bhardwaj as the Gen Sec of the new dispensation. Sep DS Sheoran had been denied membership of IESM because he is not an ex-serviceman as he does not get pension from the defence account which is the minimum condition of being called an ex-serviceman. This breakaway group has started rumours that they are office bearers of IESM. They have also filed cases in the court about their group being the original IESM. The matter is very strongly being contested in the court and very soon the breakaway group would loose the case in the court as all the evidence is in our favour.


Environment is aware of the legal procedure in India that anyone can file any case in Indian courts and let the case drag for years. This breakaway group has also done the same and have been requesting the court for dates to keep the case alive and create confusion in the minds of veterans. IESM has always appeared in the court on the designated dates but to our surprise the breakaway group has been absenting from appearance on one flimsy reason or the other and have been requesting for the fresh dates for hearing with the clear intentions, that is to prolong the case for many years to keep the rumours alive.


IESM office bearers have been maintaining a dignified silence on the wrong doings and ill intentions of the breakaway group and have not been issuing any statements to the environment. I have been constrained to issue clarification because of the runours spread by the breakaway group. This has been necessitated because of the demand from the large number of veterans with whom I interacted during my visit to Punjab on 5 and 6 November 2011. It is important for us to note that IESM is for welfare of all the veterans and have not spoken against any organisation. IESM believes that all organisations are doing good work and are helping the veterans. IESM welcomes and appreciates all ex-servicemen organisation which are taking up problems on behalf of veterans with the Govt.


In view of above following is issued for the benefit of environment and as rejoinder to the rumours.
IESM whose Chairman is Gen Raj Kadyan is working for the benefit of all ex-servicemen and would continue to take up cases of ex-servicemen with the Govt.
IESM is fully functional and has complete control on its activities and bank accounts.
IESM is holding a big rally at 1000h to 1400h at Jantar Mantar on 12 November 2011 Saturday to press for the demand of OROP for the ex-servicemen. Ex-servicemen from all states of India are reaching Delhi to attend the rally. All ex-servicemen are requested to attend the rally in large numbers.
IESM is holding AGM at 1030h to 1400h on 13 Nov 2011 Sunday at AVCC Sector 37 Noida. All members of IESM are requested to attend the AGM in large numbers.
IESM will be leading a delegation of widows to discuss the problem of widows pension with Raksha Mantri on 14 Nov 2011.
IESM will continue to take up issues of ex-servicemen with the Govt.
IESM has more than 16000 members from all states of India and the number is increasing by the day.
IESM has been pledged support by a large number of ex-servicemen organisations, from various states of India, in its fight for justice and self respect of ex-servicemen.
IESM is planning to have rallies in all states of India to air the problems of ex-servicemen to the authorities.
IESM has been able to convince the state assemblies of Punjab and Himachal Pradesh to pass unanimous resolution for grant of OROP for ex-servicemen. Effort is on to convince other state Govt to pass the similar resolution.
IESM has been able to convince the Parliament committee on defence to recommend OROP for ex-servicemen. This committee has recommended OROP for ex-servicemen in three different papers to the Govt of India.
IESM along with other organisations has made a strong presentation to petition committee of Parliament to recommend OROP for the ex-servicemen. This committee would submit its report to Speaker Lok Sabha in the winter session of Parliament. IESM is very hopeful that the report would be in favour of ex-servicemen.
IESM has also been interacting with MsP of Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha to support the case of OROP for ex-servicemen.

IESM requests to all ex-sevicemen to be careful of such rumours and please note that the grand rally of IESM will be held as per program on 12 Nov 2011 at 1000h to 1400h at Jantar Mantar New Delhi. Ex -servicemen from all states of India will be reaching Delhi to attend the rally. All ex-servicemen are requested to attend the rally in large numbers.


ITS NOW OR NEVER ALL VETERANS PLEASE COME FOR THE RALLY AND BE COUNTED.


INDIVIDUALLY WE ARE WEAK BUT TOGETHER WE WOULD BE LIKE A TORNADO AND SHAKE UP ANY LARGE TREE. TOGETHER WE WOULD BE A FORCE TO RECKON WITH.


Regards


Gp Capt VK Gandhi VSM
Gen Sec IESM
L - 48, Sector - 25,
NOIDA. 201301
Tele no 01204313951
Mobile 09810541222

ESM sitrep 23 October evening

Dear Colleagues,
AN IESM rally was held today in area of Matan Hail village, District, Jhajjar, Haryana. It was attended by approximately 400 ESM including families. Col Krit Joshipura, Lt Kameshwar Pandey and self participated from the Governing Body. The good work done so far in helping resolve different welfare related problems was praised by many who spoke. There is tremendous enthusiasm and growing support for the IESM in pursuit of its goals. Majority committed to attend the Jantar Mantar rally on 12 Nov 2011.
The planned rally on 12 November is likely to have sizeable participation from J&K and Rajasthan, apart from other States.
Wishing all ESM and their families a very happy and joyous Diwali.

Best regards,


Lt Gen (Emeritus) Raj Kadyan, PVSM, AVSM, VSM
Chairman IESM

NOTICE FOR ANNUAL GENERAL BODY( AGM ) MEETING OF INDIAN EX-SERVICEMEN MOVEMENT on 13 Nov 2011, Sunday at 1000h at AVCC sector 37 NOIDA

NOTICE FOR ANNUAL GENERAL BODY( AGM ) MEETING OF INDIAN EX-SERVICEMEN MOVEMENT
on 13 Nov 2011, Sunday at 1000h at AVCC sector 37 NOIDA
Dear All

AGM of IESM for year 2011 is planned to be held on 13 Nov 2011 Sunday at 1000h to 1200h at AVCC, Sector 37 Noida 201301. Agenda for the meeting is given below.
Welcome by Gen Sec
Address by Chairman.
To receive, consider and adopt the audited Balance Sheet as on 31 March 2011, Income & Expenditure Account for the period ended on that date and the Auditor’s Report thereon.
To appoint auditors for the year 2011-2012.
Discussion on the points raised by the members if any.
Vote of thanks.

All members are requested to attend the meeting and send their confirmation of attendance to the Gen Sec at the earliest. All members are requested to make arrangement for travel and stay at Noida/Delhi.


Members are requested to forward their points for inclusion in the agenda.

Duly audited account statement of year 20110-11 is enclosed, Guide map to reach AVCC noida is attached for the convenience of all members.


GRAND RALLY OF IESM ON 12 NOV 2011 SATURDAY




A grand rally of IESM will also be held on 12 Nov 211 at Jantar Mantar from 1000h onwards.


A delegation of ex servicemen would leave for President house at 1400h to deposit the medals returned by the veterans.


A delegation of widows would leave at 1200h to meet Mrs Sonia Gandhi 10 Janpath to hand over the memorandum about the ill treatment of widows by MOD.


All are requested to attend AGM and the rally.


Regards

Gp Capt VK Gandhi VSM
Gen Sec IESM
L - 48, Sector - 25,
NOIDA. 201301
Tele no 01204313951
Mobile 09810541222

ESM sitrep 11 October evening

Dear Colleagues,
The Governing Body met today afternoon. Apart from other agenda, they discussed the modalities of the 12 Nov rally, submission of memorandum to the Congress President and the AGM on the 13th November.
As the ESM environment is aware, Mr Bhagat Singh Koshyari is the Chairman of the Rajya Sabha Petitions Committee that is considering OROP; their report is to be tabled in the Parliament during its forthcoming Winter Session. His remarks, published in the Hindustan Times, New Delhi Uttarakhand edition, dated 9 October 2011, are reproduced below:
"Koshyari also revealed that the ex-servicemen's long pending demand for one-rank-one-pension has also been "acceded to by the planning Commission, which would benefit lakhs of ex-soldiers in Uttarakhand".
Assuming the journalist has correctly reproduced his remarks, this should be good news for all of us.


Best regards,


Lt Gen (Emeritus) Raj Kadyan, PVSM, AVSM, VSM
Chairman IESM
262, Sector-17A
Gurgaon- 122 001

ESM sitrep 28 Sep evening

Dear Colleagues,
I have received a reply this month from the Defence Minister to my query as to why the widows have been kept out of the pension-enhancement of 2010. The response unfortunately is a mere repetition of the earlier communications from the government on this subject. It again states that since the pension is related to the last pay drawn, it cannot apply to the deceased. That is incomprehensible. The enhancement covered the pre-2006 retiree pensioners. The enhanced pension sanctioned for them after the Cabinet Secretary’s Committee recommendations, also has no relation to their last pay drawn. But then these are the ways of the bureaucracy!
The Civil Services aspirants these days have to take a filter written test before they can qualify for the competitive examination; this is apparently to cut down the number of applicants. In one of the mock question papers for this examination held in June 2011, there was a question on ‘one rank one pension’. OROP has acquired visibility.

Best regards,


Lt Gen (Emeritus) Raj Kadyan, PVSM, AVSM, VSM
Chairman IESM

ESM sitrep 07 September evening

Dear Colleagues,
The latest interaction with Shri Bhagat Singh Kothari, Chairman Rajya Sabha Petitions Committee on OROP reveals that that they are still working on the petition and expect to submit it to the government in November 2011. He assured me that he wants to make it a thorough job and is putting in it whatever ideas he himself has on the issue. Among other things he mentioned that the expenditure on OROP is not around Rs 3,000 Crore as earlier estimated. According to him it should be only 1200 to 1300 Crore. This is good news for us.
Having assured me that they would submit a convincing report he added the perpetually worrying clincher; ‘it is up to the government whether to accept it or not’.
You would recollect I had written a letter to the COAS on 19 August suggesting telecasting of Heroes-like programmes in Hindi too. (‘Heroes’ was an English language programme telecast by Times Now on 15 August for our gallantry awards winners). Some days ago I received a reply from the Army PIO – attached for information.

Best regards,


Lt Gen (Emeritus) Raj Kadyan, PVSM, AVSM, VSM
Chairman IESM
262, Sector-17A
Gurgaon- 122 001
Tele: 91+124-4015262
+919811226676

ESM sitrep 03 Sep evening

Dear Colleagues,

There may be apprehension that with all the other activities happening in the country of late, our OROP issue has been pushed to the background; some ESM are beginning to show diminishing patience with the government apathy. However, we intend pursuing it with the same eager zeal as heretofore. We are still awaiting the submission of the OROP report by the Rajya Sabha Committee on petitions. Thereafter the government will give its response. It is admittedly a long struggle.

Our motivator Gen Aditya Jaini has enrolled quite a few new members from Ghaziabad. We welcome the latest among these – No18017 Wg Cdr K K Verma.


Best regards,


Lt Gen (Emeritus) Raj Kadyan, PVSM, AVSM, VSM
Chairman IESM
262, Sector-17A
Gurgaon- 122 001

ESM sitrep 27 August evening

Dear Colleagues,

It is a historic day for India. The peoples’ power has been recognized. Our heartiest congratulations go to Anna Hazare for bringing about this momentous change. He has been an epitome of steely resolve, stoic determination and civilized behavior. The government failed to see what had become abundantly clear to the whole world. Had they shown more perspicacity and grace the physical suffering of this true crusader could have been greatly ameliorated.

A battle has been won. The war will be truly won only when the bill is finally enacted, a Lokpal is in place and people start feeling relief from the cancer of corruption. But a beginning has been made, and a very good one. Knowing Anna as the country knows him now, he will carry the baton till the finishing line. We wish him good health and long life.

The IESM was happy to be fully visible in the event and its support and contribution was duly recognized.

If events of past two weeks are any indicator, it should lead to another positive; Delhi police may become more people friendly. Hopefully.

Best regards,


Lt Gen (Emeritus) Raj Kadyan, PVSM, AVSM, VSM
Chairman IESM
262, Sector-17A
Gurgaon- 122 001
Tele: 91+124-4015262
+919811226676

IESM STRONGLY SUPPORTS: INDIA AGAINST CORRUPTION

Dated: 23 Aug 2011
IESM STRONGLY SUPPORTS: INDIA AGAINST CORRUPTION
Dear Veterans,
1. IESM once against requests all ESM Organizations and ESMs across the country to strongly support India Against Corruption Campaign and enactment of strong and effective legislation.
2. Martin Luther King Jr when imprisoned said “Injustice Any where is Threat to Justice Every Where”. Fundamental rights to protest was unjustly thwarted by the Govt. It was a grave Injustice.
3. A strong and effective Lokpal and Lok Ayukta Legislation is not only a universal phenomena but deserves to become a Universal Institution which will help reform democracies of the Free World all over to rediscover their pristine spirit of Liberty under care of universally accepted good ethics, morals and values to deliver Good Governance and Justice to Mankind. This alone can usher in Peace and Tranquility through Non Violence.
4. On 11 Sep 1893, in Parliament of Religions at Chicago Swami Vivekananda had said. “No One cane ask Sun its authenticity to Shine”. No one can question Anna’s intentions to uphold and deliver Justice.
5. Friends, PM’s statement that the Govt wants strong and effective Lokpal Bill; while his intentions may not be in question but we the people of India have the right to ask him as to how will he bring strong Lokpal legislation when the seed of the Tree (in the form of Govt Draft Lokpal Bill) is not only weak but lacs potency. Standing Committee behind which the Govt is taking shelter can not substantially alter the bill. The Govt has an option to withdraw the Govt Lokpal Bill and introduce a very strong and effective Lokpal and Lok Ayukta Bill incorporating the best of all suggestions.
6. Let us all join the Movement in large numbers across the country and strongly speak in favour of enactment of a strong and effective legislations. Moral courage in every veteran should be demonstrated by speaking out for JUSTICE. PLEASE REACH IN LARGE NUMBERS WITH FAMILY MEMBERS AND SUPPORTERS AT RAM LILA GROUND ON 24 AUG 2011 AT 11 AM TO BE PART OF ANNA’S MOVEMENT and EVERYDAY THEREAFTER.
God Bless God Speed
With Regards,
Jai Hind
Yours Sincerely,
Maj Gen (Retd) Satbir Singh, SM
Vice Chairman, IESM
Mob : 9312404269,0124 – 4110570
Email : satbirsm@gmail.com, satbirsm@yahoo.com


__._,_.___

ESM SITREP 04 JULY EVENING

Dear Colleagues,

ESM from different corners of the country keep enquiring about OROP progress. Hopefully the Rajya Sabha Petitions Committee will submit its report within this month and the government would take a decision on this within the duration of the Monsoon Parliamentary session (01 Aug – 08 Sep). Although there is cause for apprehension if one goes by the reported statement of the Defence Minister in his media interaction in the last week of June 2011. He has been quoted as saying
“Though ‘one rank, one pension’ is a dream, we are nearing it. Our approach is... that step by step increase it at least to the nearest pole. We are in the process and whenever we get an opportunity, we try to increase it”.
We have to wait and watch.
As the environment would know, Punjab and HP have already passed resolutions in their State Assemblies supporting grant of OROP to Defence pensioners. A letter has been written by me to Chief Ministers of 12 other States (UP, Rajasthan, Uttarakhand, Bihar, WB, Orissa, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, MP, Chhatisgarh, Gujarat, J&K) requesting for similar action. It will help if pressure is also mounted through the local MsLA.

*************************************************************************
The letter is reproduced below:
************************************************************************

Dear Hon’ble Chief Minister,

I am approaching you in connection with an important aspect of welfare affecting the Ex Servicemen.
You may be aware that for over three years, the Ex Servicemen have been struggling for their legitimate right of ‘one rank one pension’ (OROP). It implies equal pension for all personnel that retired from the same rank after equal number of years of service, irrespective of their date of retirement. As per the existing provisions, whenever the pensions are enhanced by successive Central Pay Commissions (CPC), the enhancement is only applied prospectively and old pensioners are left out. The gap between the old and new pensioners keeps widening with each successive CPC.

Interaction with top government leaders has revealed that their apprehension possibly arises from the fact that granting OROP to defence pensioners might generate a similar demand from civilian government employees thus increasing the financial liability that may be difficult to sustain. The civilian employees are our own kith and kin and not our adversaries. However, denial of a legitimate due to the Ex Servicemen on this ground is unfair considering the vastly different service conditions under which our military persons serve. Apart from risks, dangers, separation, dislocation, hard life etc, let me highlight some other major and not easily discernible differences:

1. Early Retirement. Over 85% military personnel retire in their mid/late Thirties whereas all civil employees serve up to their age of superannuation i.e. 60 years. The military persons thus lose out on the benefits of two/three CPCs that the civilian employees enjoy. Early retirement also is at a lower pay and consequently lower pension. There is no compensation for the relative differential in their salaries and pensions.

2. Limited Promotions. The Defence Forces are structured around a very steep pyramidal rank structure. For example, at Independence, when the Army’s strength was barely 2, 50,000 they had one officer holding the rank of General. Today, even though the strength has gone up by over five times, the Army still has only one General. In contrast the proliferation of senior posts in the civil and police forces is too well known to be recounted. It may be of interest to know that an Army officer has a 0.022% chance of reaching the topmost rank.

3. Very Slow Promotions. The Defence Forces suffer a double whammy in the field of promotions. Not only are the avenues on top severely limited, even attainment of those limited senior ranks comes very late. For example, while an IAS officer becomes a Joint Secretary in about 14/20 years of service (States/Centre), its equivalent rank of Major General that comes to less than 3% of Army officers, is attained only after 33 years of commissioning.

Keeping the above realities in mind, denial of their legitimate entitlement of OROP to the Defence Forces, on the apprehension that it might evoke a similar demand among the civilian employees, is patently unjust. In fact if the OROP issue had been of equal interest to the civilian employees, they would have agitated long ago. OROP demand by Ex Servicemen that had been simmering for nearly 30 years, gathered steam after the 6th CPC report came out. It has become a very emotive issue in the entire population of the Ex Servicemen. Seen in the larger context, this can have an adverse effect on the overall security scenario in the country. It is with this background that I solicit your kind support.

........ has a very large population of Ex Servicemen and meeting their legitimate demand is in everyone’s interest. In fact Punjab and HP have already passed a resolution in the State Assemblies unanimously supporting the demand of OROP. I will request you to consider if a similar resolution can be moved in your State. I further implore you to kindly use your influence with the Centre in getting OROP sanctioned.

I will be happy to meet you and make a presentation at your convenience.

Best regards,
Lt Gen (Emeritus) Raj Kadyan, PVSM, AVSM, VSM
Chairman IESM,

ESM sitrep 06 July evening

Dear Colleagues,
During Night 05/06 July 2011, an ESM Hav Dayal, residing in his village 25 km from Rewari (Haryana), suffered a heart attack. Maj Gen Satbir Singh, SM, Vice Chairman IESM was informed telephonically at 0030 hours. He immediately swung into action, called up various hospitals and finally rushed him to Artemis Hospital Gurgaon. He also woke up Lt Col (Retd) Anil Dhall, SM a renowned cardiologist who is working as a Heart Surgeon at Artemis. Angioplasty was performed at 0345 hours by Anil and his team and the patient’s condition was stabilized.
This is another chapter in the welfare activities of the IESM and Gen Satbir deserves full praise for his energetic actions. Since the patient’s ECHS card was not available till much later in the morning, Satbir also gave an undertaking that the cost would be underwritten if the card was not produced.
IESM takes pride in announcing that a precious life has been saved through its intervention.



Best regards,


Lt Gen (Emeritus) Raj Kadyan, PVSM, AVSM, VSM
Chairman IESM

ESM sitrep 07 June evening

Dear Colleagues,
In the recent past our efforts have been concentrated towards convincing the members of the Rajya Sabha Petitions Committee of the justification and genuineness of OROP for the Defence Forces. Realising that the government reluctance to give us OROP might be based on their apprehension of it provoking a similar demand from other non-Defence employees, we laid adequate emphasis in driving home our uniqueness in the national matrix. From the trend of discussion, questions asked by Committee members and from various other indications, we are very hopeful that the recommendations of the Committee will be favourable to our demand.
We now await the report of the Petitions Committee finding its way to the government and being discussed in the Parliament. In the meantime, veterans with a flair for writing are requested to get OROP related articles published in the media so as the keep the issue on the radar screen and to keep the tempo going.
A letter/reminder sent to Mrs Sonia Gandhi on 07 June 2011 regarding the Service widows’ request to meet her is given below.
Best regards,
Lt Gen (Emeritus) Raj Kadyan, PVSM, AVSM, VSM
Chairman IESM

Presentation to the Petition Committee of Rajya Sabha

Dear Friends,
Jai Hind.

Please read the two emails reproduced below.

I am sure this will give you lot of confidence in the efforts being put in by your humble supporters IESM, who are spending sleepless nights to
get justice to YOU ALL INDIAN MILITARY VETERANS.
होंगे कामयाब हम एक दिन - एक दिनIt is time for all of us to support IESM.
Would you please –
Become member of IESM and give them whole hearted support.

You know and we all know – you cannot get very rich by saving those few hundred rupees, which are required to support IESM.
More support you can gather – better are chances of success of IESM.
We need much more momentum to move the political leaders away from the clutches of the Babus, who are bent upon cheating the Defence Services Veterans.


Please help and support IESM.
Vande Matram
In service of Indian Military Veterans
Chander Kamboj.
-------------

From: Satbir Singh [mailto:satbirsm@gmail.com]
Sent: 17 May 2011 14:56
To: CS.Kamboj@yahoo.in
Subject: Fwd: [IESM_GovBody] IESM PRESENTATION TO THE PETITION COMMITTEE OF RAJYA SABHA AND OTHER RELATED UPDATES [9 Attachments]


Dated : 17 May 2011IESM PRESENTATION TO THE PETITION COMMITTEE OF RAJYA SABHA AND OTHER RELATED UPDATES
Dear Veterans

1. The Petition Committee of Rajya Sabha on One Rank One Pension (OROP) invited a number of veteran organizations and a few veterans for the presentation on 16 May 2011. We had requested the Petition Committee to grant us sufficient time to make the presentation to enable us to do justice to the cause. You will be glad to know that our request was accepted. Alongwith us, the Navy Foundation Delhi Chapter and Brig Mahalingam an IESM veteran also made their presentations.
2. Gen Kadyan, Col R P Chaturvedi, Hony Lt Kameshwar Pandey and self represented the IESM. Gen Kadyan made a gripping, impressive, forceful and excellent presentation bringing out all the relevant facts, logic and analysis for the grant of OROP. The members of the committee which comprised Shri Bhagat Singh Koshyari, Chairman Petition Committee and Members of Rajya Sabha, Shri Avinash Pande, Shri Rajeev Shukla, Shri Ram Vilas Paswan, Shri Nandi Yellaiah, heard our presentation fully engrossed and their body language demonstrated their compassion for the soldier. Col RP Chaturvedi, Hoy Lt Kameshwar Pandey made brief forceful comments. I was privileged to add a few points with a couplet commenting on the bureaucracy:-

“Mera Katil hi Mera Munsif Hai, Mere Haq Mein Kiya Faisla Dega”(My Murderer is the Judge, How will he give Judgement in my Favour?)

I appealed to the Hon’ble Members of the petition Committee that Injustice to the Defence Forces must end at the earliest in the interest of the Nation”.
3. The Navy Foundation led by Admiral Harinder made an equally strong presentation highlighting the issue of Non functional upgrades and other promotional avenues and benefits which the bureaucracy has given to itself.
4. We were also privileged to listen to Brig V Mahalingam to a very captivating, factually backed and emotionally charged presentation which was heard by the Committee members in rapt silence nodding in obvious agreement. They commented that during the day’s proceedings they had indeed been exposed to the facts hither to fore unknown to them.
5. We also take the privilege to release IESM Memorandum and Memorandum sent by self with related documents to the Petition Committee. Friends, we are thankful to other veteran organizations ie IESL, All India Ex Services Welfare Association, Naval foundation, IESL Uttrakhand and veterans Gen HB Kala, Gen Vijay Oberoi, Gen Radhakrishnan, AVM R P Mishra, Admiral Alan O’Leary, Admiral Arun Saxena, Brig V Mahalingam for forcefully presenting the case for OROP in their respective memorandums. During our presentation, we were also privileged to hear Mr. Ramachandran Gen Secretary of All India Central Confederation of Pensioners Association speaking in favour of the Defence Personnel. He remarked that if the Defence Personnel are Govt employees, they have to be given employment till the age of 60. In case they are being compulsorily retired earlier, suitable compensation for them is the bounden duty of the Govt.
6. Dear veterans, the time has come for the OROP to be sanctioned. Let us hope the Govt (read bureaucracy) does not derail it any more. As announced earlier, if the OROP is not granted by September 2011, the IESM has planned to carry out “Fauji Gaurav Yatras” in all states of the country starting first with Punjab. The Yatras will cover all the districts of the state. Defence veterans, their members of the families and supporters in large number are likely to take part in Yatras. The aim is to draw attention of the people of India about the ill-treatment of military by successive Govts for the last 62 years. We also plan to collect maximum medals and blood signatures on the memorandum to be deposited with the President of India and inform veterans across the country that those political parties who do not support or work to get us OROP have NO RIGHT TO ask for our votes in any election. Forgetting differences if any, all veteran organizations and individual veterans are requested to join in our crusade to get justice for Defence Forces.
7. We will conduct the Yatras in a peaceful and dignified manner keeping in view the democratic norms and discipline.
“We will succeed”
“God Bless God Speed”


With Regards,

Jai Hind
Yours Sincerely,

Maj Gen (Retd) Satbir Singh, SM
Vice Chairman, IESM
Mob: 9312404269, 0124 – 4110570
Email: satbirsm@gmail.com, satbirsm@yahoo.com
Attachment(s) from Satbir Singh9 of 9 File(s)
(The attachments received from Maj Gen Satbir Singh being very large in size, cannot be mass emailed. However these attachments are being placed on the following websites –
“REPORT MY SIGNAL - BLOG” – http://reportmysignal.blogspot.com
IESM UPDATES AND MEMBERSHIP REGISTRATION – http://www.iesm.org/
SANJHA MORCHA WEBSITE - http://sanjhamorcha2009.blogspot.com/ )
---------------

From: IESM_GovBody@yahoogroups.com [mailto:IESM_GovBody@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Kameshwar Pandey
Sent: 17 May 2011 16:04
To: gove body IESM
Subject:
CONGRATULATIONS ON AN OUTSTANDING PRESENTATION, SIR.


Dear Gen Kadyan Sir,

I am still recovering from the awe-effect of the presentation you made yesterday. To say that it was an outstanding presentation that you made in front of the petition committee would be a huge understatement. IESM is both lucky and proud to have you as our Chairman and I feel privileged to be able to work closely with you. Even the chairman and the other members of the petition committee had no option but to appreciate your presentation. The effect that the presentation had on the committee can be gauged by the remark that they made, "we would like to meet you again during the course of finalization of the committee recommendations." On behalf of our team and as an 'eye-witness' I would like to congratulate you on a remarkable presentation yesterday.

The beauty of presentation lay in the fact that all our claims, our points and our apprehensions were backed by solid, water-tight facts and figures. What was even more outstanding was that these were issues mostly related to war widows, JCOs, NCOs and other ranks - something that was missing from most of the other presentations made before the committee. It was, thus, proven one more time that Gen Kadyan follows the 'subordinates first' rule which so many senior veterans have forgotten.

Some points of the presentation that I want to highlight that Gen Kadyan stressed on:

- The main focus of the presentation was, of course, on One Rank One Pension, its need and its justification.

- Intended and subtle pun on the cunning efforts of bureaucrats for the planned and tactical down-gradation of the military.

- Loved this quote, "mera qatil hi mera munsif hai, kya mere haq mein faisla dega..." which was delivered in an extremely emotional way by Gen Satbir sir which moved everyone sitting in the room.

- I salute the herculean effort put in by Gen Satbir sir as well as Col R P Chaturvedi sir who worked behind the scenes tirelessly which made this presentation a grand success that it was. We must also thank to Hav Devi Lal sahib who is always in the thick of every IESM activity. Hav Devi Lal sahib is an asset for IESM.

Finally, I apologize for taking the mic without your permission to support the points of Sh S S Ramachandran. The chairman, Mr Koshiyari, tried to interrupt him but I was in full agreement with the point raised by Mr S S Ramachandran, that the young lot of firearms trained soldiers, if left dissatisfied, can be misguided by anti national elements and that can be mighty dangerous.

The question before us, therefore, is weather these committees have any vested powers or are they merely an eye-wash and a governments gimmick to buy more time and further delay the issue. A member of the committee was saying that we are here to give you a hearing and that there are many committees above them that might or might not listen to their recommendations. What, then, is the use of all this lao-lashkar? And what should be our course of action?

I once again appreciate the collective efforst of IESM as a unit because of which such presentations and meetings are suddenly happening and everybody is talking about ESM and OROP. What is notable is the fact that IESM was called separately for making the presentation! That said,
लड़ाई लम्बी है. हमें शांति, धीरज और हिम्मत से आगे बढ़ाना है.


Thank you.
Yours truly.

Kameshwar Pandey
Sub/Maj Hony. Lt. (Veteran)
Governing Body Member Indian ESM Movement
Resi: 230, Pocket-1, DDA SFS Flats, Sector-1,
Dwarka, New Delhi - 110 075
Cell : +91-9811059825

OROP: Presentation to Petition Committee

Dear Colleagues,
The presentation to the Rajya Sabha Petitions Committee took place as scheduled. It was heard by the Chairman Shri Bhagat Singh Koshiari, and many other members including Shri Ram Vilas Paswan and Shri Rajiv Shukla. Our team included, Hony Lt Kameshwar Pande, Col Rakesh Chaturvedi, Maj Gen Satbir Singh and self. Our 25-minute power point projection was heard with rapt attention. Body language of the Committee members betrayed a very positive response.
Best regards,
Lt Gen (Emeritus) Raj Kadyan, PVSM, AVSM, VSM
Chairman IESM

ESM sitrep 13 May evening

Dear Colleagues,

The Rajya Sabha Petitions Committee on OROP is in session. We are scheduled to make a presentation in the next week.
Sub Hari Singh and Capt Chander Singh continue their membership drive relentlessly, undaunted by the oppressive Hisar heat. Their enthusiasm is exemplary.
A letter written to the Defence Minister today is reproduced below:

IESM/Terminology 13 May 2011

Dear Hon’ble Defence Minister,

I draw your kind attention to the need for using correct terminology in Government communications. In the military, the terms Officers, Junior Commissioned Officers (JCOs), Non Commissioned Officers (NCOs) and Other Ranks (OR) have been historically used while referring to personnel of different ranks. The relevant point to be noted is that JCOs and NCOs are also officers though they may not hold the same level of commission as the Class 1 Commissioned Officers.
It has been observed that for some time in the past a new term PBOR – Personnel Below Officer Rank – has been coined and is being used in official communication. The term ‘PBOR’ willy-nilly conveys an impression that personnel being alluded to are not officers. This does not fit facts as explained in the preceding paragraph. Use of term ‘PBOR’ arouses strong emotions of protest from the affected veterans. We had taken up the issue with the Army Headquarters and we were assured that the use of term ‘PBOR’ would discontinue.
In a recent MoD letter dated 15 Feb 2011 concerning disability pension, the term ‘PBOR’ has again been used. It is requested that keeping in view the sensitivity of the environment and emotive angle involved, use of term ‘PBOR’ may kindly be eschewed in future.
With regards,
Yours sincerely,

Lt Gen Raj Kadyan


Best regards,

Lt Gen (Emeritus) Raj Kadyan, PVSM, AVSM, VSM

Chairman IESM

HEALTHCARE DEFENCE VETERANS by Maj Gen Satbir singh

Lt Gen Mukesh Sabharwal, PVSM, AVSM*, VSM Dated : 05 May 2011
The Adjutant General
Adjutant General’s Branch
Integrated HQ of MoD (Army)
Room 280, South BlockDHQ PO, New Delhi -110011


HEALTHCARE DEFENCE VETERANS

Dear General Sabharwal,

1. On 03 May 2011, I had an opportunity to visit RR Hospital Oncology Department with a relative patient. While waiting for our turn to be seen by the doctor, I happened to read a Notice Board put up in the corridor which has compelled me to write their letter.

2. All along our Military Career, (the post retirement being part of it as the last stage), we were told that Health Care of the Defence Veteran and his/her spouce would be taken care of by the Govt. We were told that DSSR also mentions so. The ECHS was introduced to further improve the health care of defence Veteans. But what is written on the Notice Board referred above, one can safely deduce that any Defence Veteran or his/her ECHS dependent inflicted with the Cancer will find it most difficult to get the treatment and he is sure to die most probably due to harassment and exhaustion rather than by cancer.. I borrowed a paper from the reception counter and copied what was written on the Notice Board. The same is as follows:-

All Ex Servicemen to be registered under ECHS for treatment of cancer.

All ECHS members to come to Oncology OPD with reference for ECHS Policlinic.

ECHS members to come to OPD Days (Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday) for consultation between 0900 – 1400hrs.

All patient coming for initial or subsequent visit should get then registered in OPD.


All special investigation or Radiological investigation will be done from civil hospital through ECHS Cell.

Radiotherapy and Chemotherapy will not be provided at this hospital.

Surgery may be offered depending on availability of beds and OT slot, after permission from Commandant.

Medicines and disposable for ECHS members to be collected from ECHS policlinic.

Only patients operated at this hospital will be reviewed here. Others, who have received treatment in civil are to be followed up at the respective hospitals.


3. The analysis

(a) The individual first reports to ECHS, collects the investigation forms, goes to
investigation empanelled hospitals which is difficult to find, gets back to ECHS, collects referral form for RR, reports to RR gets registered and then reports to Oncology department. (The patient and his/her relatives are already exhausted).


(b) ECHS members can visit RR only on OPD Days ie Tuesday, Thursday,
Saturday for consultation between 0900 – 1400hrs. Coming from 50 – 60 Kms away he is late at the reception and may not get his turn that day. This is what a few in the corridor had to tell me.

(c) The notice says that all special investigations or Radiological investigations will
be carried out in civil Hospital through ECHS Cell and not in RR Hospital. The patient returns to ECHS polyclinic which has already been closed for the day. He comes to ECHS, the next day and gets referral forms for investigations, goes to civil hospitals and gets the investigation done. After a few days collects investigation reports from the civil hospital and returns to ECHS Polyclinic. Again waits for his turn, gets referral to RR Hospital and then on OPD day reports to Oncology Dept.

(d) He is seen by the specialist doctor but his ordeal does not end. If Radiotherapy and
Chemotherapy are required to be don, the Notice Board says that these will not be provided at RR Hospital. He then goes back to ECHS polyclinic, is seen by the doctor who then prepares referral for civil hospital.

(e) He then goes to the civil hospital and waits for his turn to be given future date for
the therapy.


(f) The Notice Board also says that surgery if required may be offered depending on
availability of beds and OT Slot that too after permission from Commandant. The individual then starts his journey to reach upto the Commandant to get permission. If he is lucky, to get permission, he returns to oncology department and gets the date for surgery.

(g) The problem is further compounded, the Notice Body says, Medicines and
disposables for ECHS members to be collected from ECHS polyclinic. The patient returns to his dependent ECHS Polyclinic and asks for Medicines and disposables. More often, the local purchase funds would not be available, and the individual is harassed further. He is now at the breaking point.

(h) If he is lucky to get his surgery done at RR, only then he can get himself
reviewed at RR. But if he has been operated in any civil hospital, he would have to follow the same tedious procedure to get himself reviewed at the Civil Hospital since RR will not entertain him for any future complications.

5. After reading the Notice Board I looked up and prayed to the God that No defence veteran should ever get Cancer since he is sure to die due to the bureaucratic tedious system of provision of Health Care. Soldier took the oath that Nation comes first then come his comrades and his own comfort the last and accepted to sacrifice his life. But he was assured that the Nation will lookafter his needs. Alas! if the instructions on the Notice Board are any indication, a defence veteran has been left at the VILLAGE WELL AS FIRED CARTRIDGE TO DIE. Dear General Sabharwal, I must admit that my emotions over took and tears rolled down.

6. May we request you to please take up the case at the highest levels and get the system set right to ensure that super specialty care to the Defence Veterans for all type of health problems is provided through single Widow concept. Please treat this MOST URGENT



With Regards,

Jai Hind Yours Sincerely,





Maj Gen (Retd) Satbir Singh, SM
Vice Chairman Indian ESM Movement
Mobile: 9312404269, 0124-4110570
Email : satbirsm@yahoo.com