Delayed Pension Payments Threaten Livelihoods of Seniors and Disabled in Jharkhand

RANCHI, Sep 15 — Senior citizens and disabled residents of Jharkhand are facing mounting hardship as pension payouts remain unpaid for up to six months, a situation highlighted by opposition figure Babulal Marandi.

Marandi explained that the regular pension is the primary economic cushion for many elderly households, allowing them to secure medicines, meet ration needs and keep basic services running.

He pointed out that the unpaid sums, ranging from a few hundred to a thousand rupees, can be transformative for families lacking alternative income sources, and prolonged delay could trigger a severe financial emergency.

Calling on Chief Minister Hemant Soren, Marandi demanded an immediate investigation into the backlog and the prompt clearance of all arrears to safeguard the dignity and welfare of the most vulnerable groups.

State officials have not yet provided a statement regarding the pending disbursements.