DHURI, Punjab: Persons with disabilities (Divyangs) staged a renewed protest in Dhuri, the home constituency of Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, demanding action on their long-pending demands, including an increase in the disability pension and the implementation of assurances given by the state government.
The protest has continued despite a prolonged agitation, with demonstrators expressing disappointment over the lack of a concrete resolution to their demands. According to the information provided by the protesters, a permanent protest, known as a Pakka Morcha, has been underway in Dhuri since August 6. They say their struggle has yet to produce the decisions they have been seeking.
The demand for an increase in the disability pension remains at the centre of the agitation. Protesters are pressing the government to issue an official notification confirming the proposed hike rather than leaving the matter at the level of assurances. They have also called for decisions on their other pending demands and a clear timeline for implementing them.
The agitation took a serious turn in September when some protesters reportedly climbed a water tank while carrying bottles of petrol, creating tension and concern among the local administration. The incident highlighted the seriousness of the situation and the growing frustration among demonstrators. The circumstances underline the need for urgent dialogue and a peaceful resolution.
The protesters say a meeting with Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema has not resulted in a concrete outcome. They are now seeking direct intervention by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, urging him to meet their representatives and address their concerns.
The key demands include an immediate notification on the disability pension increase, approval and implementation of long-pending issues, action on assurances reportedly given after the meeting with the Finance Minister, and a time-bound plan for fulfilling the commitments. The protesters also want a direct meeting with the Chief Minister so that their concerns can be discussed with the state’s top political leadership.
The renewed demonstration during Bhagwant Mann’s visit to Dhuri has brought the issue back into focus. The protesters are asking why their demands remain unresolved despite weeks of agitation in the Chief Minister’s own constituency.
For persons with disabilities, pension support and the timely implementation of government decisions can be essential to meeting everyday living expenses and maintaining dignity and independence. Their demands therefore raise broader questions about the effectiveness of grievance redressal mechanisms and the accountability of public authorities when vulnerable sections of society seek assistance.
The state government’s response will be important in determining whether the prolonged confrontation can be resolved through dialogue and concrete decisions. A clear official position, transparent communication and a realistic implementation schedule could help address the uncertainty surrounding the protesters’ demands.
The central question remains: When will the Punjab government respond to the Divyang protesters with concrete decisions, an official pension notification and a time-bound commitment to resolve their long-pending grievances?
Editorial note: The report is based on the information supplied. The government’s response and the precise status of the proposed pension increase should be independently confirmed before publication.