Mon Jan 13 10:57:20 UTC 2025: ## Odisha to Provide Rs 20,000 Monthly Pension to Emergency-Era Political Prisoners
**Bhubaneswar, India –** The Odisha state government has announced a monthly pension of Rs 20,000 (approximately $242 USD) for individuals imprisoned during India’s Emergency period (1975-1977). The initiative, effective January 1, 2025, also includes coverage of medical expenses.
According to a notification from the state home department, the pension applies to those arrested and jailed under the Maintenance of Internal Security Act, Defence of India Rule, or Defence and Internal Security of India Rules. The benefit extends to all surviving individuals as of January 1, 2025, regardless of the length of their imprisonment. Free medical treatment, as per the state’s health and family welfare department provisions, will also be provided.
Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi first announced the plan on January 2nd. The move aims to compensate those who suffered incarceration for opposing the Emergency, a period marked by widespread human rights violations. Hundreds of individuals across India were imprisoned during that time. No backdated benefits will be provided; payments will commence only from January 1, 2025.
First Piper 