Guwahati, 20 May (HS): The Assam Pradesh unit of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Wednesday welcomed the decision of Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma to introduce a penalty mechanism for delays in pension processing, describing it as a landmark reform aimed at ensuring dignity and financial security for retired government employees.

According to the BJP Assam Pradesh, the initiative reflects the state government’s commitment to transparent governance and accountability in public administration. The party stated that retired employees who dedicated their lives to the service of the state deserve timely disbursal of pension benefits without unnecessary delays or procedural hardships.

Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma said that pensioners have contributed immensely to Assam’s development and it is their rightful entitlement to receive pensions on time. He stated that the government is putting in place a strict accountability framework under which officials responsible for delays in processing pension cases will face penalties.

As per a notification issued by the Administrative Reforms, Training, Pension and Public Grievances Department, officials responsible for undue delays will face a financial penalty of ₹250 per day, subject to a maximum of ₹5,000. Delayed pension cases will be monitored every month through the Kritagyata Portal, while recovery of penalties will be carried out through the FinAssam system.

The BJP said the reform would strengthen accountability across departments and help ensure hassle-free delivery of pension benefits to retiring employees. The party also termed the move an example of compassionate and efficient governance under the leadership of the Chief Minister.

The Assam BJP extended its appreciation to the Chief Minister for the initiative and reiterated its support for measures aimed at protecting the rights and dignity of pensioners across the state.---------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Sriprakash