Freedom fighters’ kin seek quota in jobs

Tribune News Service

Amritsar, October 10

The All India Freedom Fighters’ Successors Organization (Punjab state unit) today submitted a memorandum to the vice-chairman of National SC Commission Raj Kumar Verka for forwarding it to the Central Government regarding their demands.

They sought the formation of a National Freedom Fighters Welfare Board and involvement of freedom fighters and their successors in it. They also sought reservation for successors of freedom fighters in government jobs besides provision of loan for unemployed successors to set up their business.

Gain Singh Saggu, president of the association, said the Central Government provides pension to the unemployed and unmarried daughters of freedom fighters and their wives after their death. On similar lines, the Central Government should provide pension to the unemployed and sons of freedom fighter couples who are over 60 years old by making amendment in the constitution.

He said the government should also make arrangements for the residential accommodation of freedom fighters and their family members. They also demanded waiving of 75 per cent of rail fare in all classes for freedom fighters and their successors. He said there should also be a quota for opening up stalls on railway platforms and allotment of petrol pumps and gas agencies. The association also sought the nomination of freedom fighters and their successors to the Rajaya Sabha and Lok Sabha besides government committees, boards and commissions.

The association also demanded railway passes for the unemployed and unmarried daughters of freedom fighters.