DC allows reservation plea by kin of ex-servicemen

Divya Sethi , TNN, May 4, 2010, 10.31pm IST


Tags:Ludhiana|District commissioner Rahul Tiwari

LUDHIANA: There is a ray of hope that the ‘discrimination’ being faced by family members of ex-servicemen while seeking employment might end. Former personnel raised objection to the criteria that put a cap on reservation for only one child while other government offices allow job for any kin of the official. District commissioner Rahul Tiwari assured the representatives that the matter would be forwarded to the Central Government through state government.

President of Indian Ex-Services League, Punjab and Chandigarh, Col (retd) Bhag Singh, said, “There is a 13 % reservation for family members of ex-servicemen. The Punjab government has divided it further for those belonging to general and SC/OBC categories whereas there is no such distinction while getting enrolled in armed forces. Hence, the reservation quota should be open for all, irrespective of caste.”

“Moreover, only one child of the family can derive the benefit while there is no such rule in other reservation categories for other services. So, we want the benefit to be applicable for all relatives of ex-servicemen. The rule needs to amended immediately,” he added.

Divulging that he “has been receiving many complaints with plea of justice,” he further said, “The defence personnel spend their entire life for the country and when it comes to availing the benefits, the government shows indifferent attitude.”

Rahul Tiwari said, “Though we do not formulate policies, we respect ex-servicemen who ensure our safety during adverse circumstances.” Assuring that he would definitely consider their request, he added, “I will send their request to the state government.