New Delhi, 02 April (H.S.):

Lok Sabha leader of the Opposition, Rahul Gandhi, has accused the Ex‑Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS) of serious shortcomings, saying that over 72 million ex‑servicemen and their families are adversely affected. He highlighted that the scheme faces recurring issues such as delays in reimbursements, shortage of medicines, hospitals refusing treatment and non‑payment of pending dues.

In a Facebook post, Gandhi wrote that during recent meetings with injured ex‑servicemen he was briefed about these problems. When he raised the issue in Parliament, he alleged that the government tried to avoid answering his questions. According to him, the government has neither provided clear information on the pending dues nor given a satisfactory explanation for the delays.

He also stated that the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) recently reported that the scheme is not receiving adequate financial allocation. Yet, he claimed, the government has refused to explain why it is not providing the necessary budget for the health care of ex‑servicemen.

In addition, Gandhi said the government has ignored his questions regarding tax concessions for disabled ex‑servicemen. Under a proposed provision in the Finance Bill, disability pension would be taxed if a soldier continues in service. He argued that this is effectively treating soldiers who are serving the country as if they are being punished.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar