Pensioners of Radio Pakistan have appealed to Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif for immediate intervention, alleging that the administration has stopped the payment of December pensions to a large number of retired employees without prior notice or justification.
In an appeal addressed to the prime minister, the pensioners, many of whom are elderly, ailing, widows, and financially distressed, said the suspension of pensions has pushed them into severe financial and psychological hardship.
They stated that several pensioners are struggling to meet basic living and medical expenses, while families including orphaned children are also being affected.
The pensioners further claimed that for years they have not been paid their commutation amounts, have been deprived of medical allowances, and have not received pension increases announced in successive federal budgets.
According to the appeal, the 13-month pension increase announced in previous financial years is still outstanding.
The appeal alleged that the actions of the Radio Pakistan administration, including Director General Saeed Ahmed Sheikh, Director Finance Inam-ul-Haq, and officials responsible for the Pension Management System and IT Department, have caused continuous mental stress and hardship to pensioners.
It said prolonged financial strain has led to serious health issues among many retirees, including hypertension and diabetes.
Calling the situation alarming, the pensioners urged the prime minister to intervene immediately to ensure restoration of their pensions and other legitimate dues, stating that timely action would help alleviate their ongoing distress and uncertainty.