Bhubaneswar: Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi has initiated the process of honouring great sons and patriots who embody Odia Asmita. As part of this effort, the allowance for freedom fighters has been increased, and a pension scheme has been announced for those arrested under the Maintenance of Internal Security Act (MISA) during the Emergency.
The Chief Minister has approved a proposal to provide pensions to 23 MISA prisoners (19 MISA, 4 DISIR), in addition to the 21 MISA prisoners already approved, bringing the total to 44 eligible detainees. These activists will receive a monthly pension of Rs 20,000, and their medical expenses will be covered by the state government.
During the Emergency (June 25, 1975, to March 21, 1977), many freedom fighters were arrested under laws like MISA, DIR, and DISIR while protesting against the Emergency and were imprisoned. It has been decided that all fighters alive as of January 1, 2025, will receive pensions and medical benefits.
