For the first time, Army veterans today boycotted the official celebrations and commemorated the 1965 victory at Jantar Mantar.
Brigadier DP Nair had confirmed his presence at the Amar Jawan Jyoti commemoration function in the capital to celebrate 50 years of India's victory in the 1965 war against Pakistan. He got ready, his medals proudly adorning his blazer.
Then, as he was about to leave home, he changed his mind, heading to Delhi's Jantar Mantar, instead of India Gate, where his "fellow brothers", as he put it, were protesting.
"I don't believe in boycotts, this is my government," he told NDTV, "But I thought it was unfair for me to attend the government function when my brothers were here protesting for OROP (One Rank One Pension)."
For the first time, veterans today boycotted the official celebrations and commemorated the 1965 victory at Jantar Mantar. continuing with their demand for One Rank One Pension. Maj General Ram Nath also boycotted government functions to support fellow veterans at Jantar Mantar. "We want to celebrate but it's very unfortunate that it has come down to this," he said.
With many veterans staying away, the President met the few who showed up at the Amar Jawan Jyoti, while Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar reiterated the government commitment to its election promise.
"OROP has been accepted. We are committed to it. There are some gaps. It will take some time," he said.
The protesting veterans today also met Home Minister Rajnath Singh. Sources say, even though most hurdles have been cleared, except one. The government is firm its offer of reviewing pensions every five years while the veterans are demanding an annual or at least a biennial review. The review rationalises outdated pension rates, in effect raising them after a particular period.