Chandigarh: 95-year-old Barfi Devi from Mahendragarh district of Haryana died on November 8.He fought tirelessly for 12 years to get the Freedom Fighter Dependent Pension from the Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA). Due to bureaucratic apathy, his pension was delayed despite MHA accepting his full entitlements.It took time even after the MHA sought clarity on the records from the Haryana government, but the impact of Covid-19 further delayed his case. Later, some ultra-technical issues, including minor discrepancies in the spelling of her and her husband’s names, further added to the delay. The MHA, which issues such pensions, had sought clarification on whether “Barfi Devi ” and “barfi Devi” are the same name? The MHA also sought clarification on whether her late husband’s name was Sultan Singh or Sultan Ram, as it was found to be different in some documents such as bank passbook and PAN card sent with her portrayal.
Sultan Ram used to get pension till 2011
Barfi Devi’s husband Sultan Ram was given freedom fighter pension from 1972 to 2011, but it was stopped after his life certificate was not updated. He died in 2012 and his widow Barfi Devi had as been pursuing her case for pension as a dependent of a freedom fighter as per the rules.
Petition in Punjab Haryana High Court in 2023
The Deputy Commissioner (DC) office in Mahendragarh had also recommended his case to the Center after verifying his claims. In September 2023, he approached the Punjab-Haryana High Court seeking directions to get the pension. The High Court imposed fine on the Center twice for not filing its reply in the case.
High Court also imposed fine on the Center twice
On April 24 this year,the High Court imposed a fine of Rs 15,000 on the Center and again on July 24,Rs 25,000 for not responding in the case. Following the High Court’s warning, the Center filed its reply and the matter was listed for hearing on December 13. But Barfi Devi’s wait for pension was over and she died a month before the court could pronounce its verdict on her petition.
What did Sumitra Devi’s daughter say?
Barfi Devi’s daughter Sumitra Devi said that her mother died saddened by the fact that she was not being given her father’s pension, which he had proudly earned by serving the country. Sumitra said her mother was emotionally attached to the issue as she regretted that the Center delayed her claim on frivolous grounds. He said that we felt that the Center was probably waiting for him to die. Otherwise, it was a clear case, and they had all the documents. Even the state government supported him. After his death, we now know that the center’s stated grounds could have been ignored.
How can individuals effectively navigate bureaucratic challenges when claiming government benefits?
Interview with Dr. Anjali Mehta: Expert on Bureaucratic Challenges in Pension Disbursement
Editor, Time.news: Thank you for joining us today, Dr.Anjali Mehta. we’re discussing the tragic story of 95-year-old Barfi Devi, who spent years fighting for her Freedom Fighter dependent Pension, only to pass away just before her case could be adjudicated. What are your thoughts on this situation?
Dr. Anjali Mehta: Thank you for having me. Barfi Devi’s case is a stark reminder of the bureaucratic hurdles that many face when attempting to secure their rightful benefits. It’s disheartening to see how unnecessary complications, like minor discrepancies in names, can delay support for those who have served our country.
Editor, Time.news: What do you think were the primary factors contributing to the delays in disbursing Barfi Devi’s pension?
Dr. Anjali Mehta: The delays stemmed from a combination of systemic issues and bureaucratic apathy. Even after the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) accepted her entitlements, the need for clarity on records from the Haryana government caused additional setbacks. The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated these delays as well. It raises questions about the efficiency of our bureaucratic systems,especially when they impact vulnerable individuals.
Editor, Time.news: The Punjab-Haryana High Court also imposed fines on the Center for not responding to the case. How significant is this?
Dr. Anjali Mehta: Imposing fines on the Center illustrates the judiciary’s frustration with bureaucratic inefficiencies. This is essential for accountability, but it also highlights the unfortunate reality that the legal system had to intervene to expedite a matter that should have been addressed promptly by the government.Such cases underline the urgent need for administrative reforms to improve responsiveness.
Editor, time.news: Barfi devi’s daughter expressed her belief that the Center might have been waiting for her mother to pass away before addressing her claims. What implications does this have for the trust citizens have in government processes?
Dr. anjali Mehta: Family members’ sentiments, like those expressed by Barfi Devi’s daughter, can substantially erode public confidence in government institutions. When individuals feel their rights are overlooked or trivialized, it leads to disillusionment. Trust is essential for a functional democracy, and cases like this can foster regional discontent and distrust in bureaucratic processes.
Editor, Time.news: Based on your expertise, what practical advice would you offer to individuals fighting similar battles for pension claims or other government benefits?
Dr. Anjali Mehta: I would encourage them to keep detailed records of all correspondence and documentation with government offices. It’s crucial to follow up regularly on the status of their claims, as persistence often yields results. Engaging local representatives or organizations that specialize in these matters can also provide additional support and advocacy. Legal recourse should be considered as a last resort, ideally when all other avenues have been weary.
Editor, Time.news: Thank you,Dr. Mehta, for your insights on this pressing issue. Barfi Devi’s case serves as a catalyst for essential conversations about bureaucratic efficiency and the rights of dependent family members seeking justice in these pension matters.
Dr. Anjali Mehta: Thank you for highlighting this important topic. It’s critical we advocate for our veterans and ensure they receive the benefits they deserve, reflecting their sacrifices for the nation.