The Bihar government has announced a significant boost for those jailed during India’s Emergency period, doubling their monthly pension. This immediate move provides crucial financial relief to political prisoners, known as ‘Loktantra Senanis,’ who bravely fought for basic rights and democracy decades ago. Effective now, this increased support directly acknowledges their sacrifices and commitment to the nation, ensuring better living conditions for these freedom fighters in Bihar.
New Financial Support for Old Activists
The government of Bihar has announced a major increase in the monthly payments given to political activists who were put in jail during the Emergency period. This move means that the pension amounts under the “JP Senani Scheme” have been doubled. The decision was made at a cabinet meeting led by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar. Under the new plan, those activists who were held in jail for a period of one month to six months during the Emergency will now receive 15,000 rupees each month. This is a significant jump from their previous monthly payment of 7,500 rupees. For those who spent more than six months behind bars, their monthly pension has been raised to 30,000 rupees, up from the earlier 15,000 rupees. This increase aims to provide better financial support to these individuals. There are currently 3,354 activists, known as ‘JP Senanis,’ who receive pension payments under this scheme.
Understanding a Difficult Time in History
To interpret why these payments are being made, it is essential to look back at a specific time in India’s history called the Emergency. This was a 21-month period that started on June 25, 1975. ended on March 21, 1977. During this time, the then Prime Minister declared a state of emergency across the country. The stated reason was concerns about threats from inside and outside the country. But, during the Emergency, many basic rights of citizens were taken away. Freedom of expression was limited. many political opponents, journalists. people who did not agree with the government were arrested and put in jail. It is estimated that more than 100,000 political opponents were imprisoned. People were often arrested under specific laws such as the Maintenance of Internal Security Act (MISA) and the Defence of India Rules (DIR or DISIR). The courts also had less power during this time to question government decisions. This period is widely seen as a time when democracy faced serious challenges in India. The actions taken during the Emergency led to a strong public reaction and played a major role in the political changes that followed in the country.
Who is Called a ‘JP Senani’
The term “JP Senani” refers to political activists who were part of or supported the movement led by Jayaprakash Narayan, often called “JP” or “Lok Nayak” (People’s Leader). This movement, also known as the Bihar Movement, started in 1974. It began as a student protest against issues like corruption and bad governance in Bihar. Jayaprakash Narayan stepped in to lead it, calling for a “Total Revolution” or “Sampoorna Kranti” to bring big changes to society. Many people, including students, farmers. common citizens, joined this movement. When the Emergency was declared, many of these activists were arrested because of their involvement in the movement and their opposition to the government’s policies. The Bihar government’s pension scheme specifically aims to honor these individuals for their struggle and sacrifices during that period. Chief Minister Nitish Kumar himself was a notable figure in the “JP movement” that began in 1974, a year before the Emergency was declared. The pension scheme, named after Jayaprakash Narayan, was first launched by Chief Minister Kumar in 2009. Notably, former Bihar Chief Minister Lalu Prasad is also one of the people who receives benefits from this scheme.
Why the Government Made This Decision
The Bihar government’s decision to double the pension for these political activists is being seen as a way to acknowledge and honor their past struggles. Officials have stated that this increase is a recognition of the sacrifices made by these individuals who were imprisoned for protesting against the Emergency. The government aims to provide better financial security and show respect to those who fought for the restoration of democratic values. This decision comes at a time when assembly elections are expected in the state later this year. Some observers suggest that such a move could also be seen as a way to connect with a specific group of voters and their families ahead of the elections. But, the official stance emphasizes the recognition of historical contributions and the sacrifices made for democracy.
What Different Groups Think
The decision to increase the pension has brought various reactions. For the ‘JP Senanis’ themselves and their families, the increased pension means more financial relief and a greater sense of recognition for their past struggles. Many of these activists have lived through difficult times since their imprisonment during the Emergency. This enhanced support can help them meet their daily needs and medical expenses. From a political standpoint, the move is largely viewed as positive, particularly by those who align with the values of the “JP Movement” and the anti-Emergency struggle. Parties and leaders who were part of or supported the protests against the Emergency would likely welcome this step, seeing it as a just measure to honor those who suffered for democracy. The Chief Minister’s personal connection to the movement also adds a specific layer to this decision. The general public’s reception is also vital. For many, the Emergency remains a significant event in India’s modern history. recognizing those who opposed it resonates with democratic ideals. The government’s decision could be seen as a reaffirmation of the importance of civil liberties and the sacrifices made to protect them.
How the New Payments Will Work
The increased pension amounts will be disbursed through the existing framework of the “JP Senani Scheme” or “Loknayak Samman Pension Yojana.” The Bihar cabinet’s approval means that the necessary financial allocations and administrative adjustments will be made to ensure that the new, higher amounts reach the eligible beneficiaries. The government’s social welfare department is generally responsible for managing such pension schemes. They will ensure that the payments are made smoothly and on time to the identified ‘JP Senanis.’ This involves updating records for the 3,354 existing beneficiaries and making sure the new, higher amounts are processed correctly based on their period of imprisonment during the Emergency. The overall goal is to make the process of receiving the increased pension as straightforward as possible for the deserving individuals.
What Else the Government Approved
Apart from doubling the pension for Emergency-era political prisoners, the Bihar cabinet also made several other essential decisions at the same meeting. These include measures aimed at boosting the state’s economy and improving public services. For instance, the cabinet gave its approval for the acquisition of 2,627 acres of land. This land, which will cost 812 crore rupees, is intended for expanding the industrial area network across the state. This is expected to attract more investments and create new job opportunities for people in Bihar. Also, the cabinet increased the yearly payment for more than 90,000 Booth Level Officers (BLOs) in the state. Their annual honorarium has been raised from 10,000 rupees to 14,000 rupees. Similarly, the yearly payment for BLO Supervisors, of whom there are over 8,400 in the state, has been increased from 15,000 rupees to 18,000 rupees. These decisions reflect a broader set of initiatives by the government to support different sections of the population and push forward various development projects within the state. 
