New Delhi, 28 February (H.S.): Congress MP and Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi has written to Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, demanding adequate budget allocation for the Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS) and withdrawal of the proposed income tax on disability pensions.

In his February 25 letter, Gandhi highlighted two critical issues facing armed forces personnel. The ECHS faces a severe financial crisis, with over ₹12,000 crore in pending medical bills and budget allocation nearly 30% below requirements. Payment delays are forcing hospitals to exit the scheme, compelling veterans to bear treatment costs themselves and delaying care for serious ailments.

Gandhi referenced this year's Finance Bill, which proposes taxing disability pensions for serving soldiers—the first such levy since 1922. He argued that disability pensions are not income but compensation for service-related injuries, making taxation unjust. A delegation of ex-servicemen raised these concerns during a meeting with him.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar