In Lucknow, the Association for Teachers and Employees Welfare Association (ATEWA) recently orchestrated a noteworthy event known as “Run For OPS,” mobilizing a substantial number of educators and staff in an advocacy campaign for the reinstatement of old-age pensions. The participants, comprising a significant presence of teachers and employees, made a serene yet impactful statement, clad in distinctive attire – pink T-shirts and white pants for male teachers, and pink outfits for their female counterparts.
The event commenced with a run from Ambedkar Park to Lohia Park, where the attendees, maintaining a disciplined approach, raised their voices in unison for their rights. The slogans resonating through the air included patriotic chants like “Bharat Mata Ki Jai” and “Vande Mataram.” The visual representation of teachers and employees donned in their chosen colors added a vibrant touch to the demonstration, emphasizing their collective stand for the reinstatement of old-age pensions.
The gathering was not just a call for pension revival but also a resolute opposition to privatization initiatives. Post-run, the participants congregated at Lohia Park to further amplify their demands. The consistent rallying cries for “Bharat Mata Ki Jai” and “Vande Mataram” were coupled with expressions of solidarity and commitment to the cause.
Vijay Kumar ‘Bandhu,’ the National President of NMOPS and the State President of ATEWA, underscored the organization’s commitment to innovative initiatives, whether it be voter awareness campaigns or events like the Run For OPS, all in the pursuit of peacefully reinstating old-age pensions.
Chief Minister Yogi’s expression of support added significance to the event. He highlighted the physical health benefits of running while drawing a contrast to the potential adverse effects of the Old Pension Scheme (OPS) on the aging process. Dr. Manoj Kumar Pandey, the President of Lwakta, stressed the importance of the government recognizing the sacrifices made by employees during the challenging times of the pandemic, urging the reinstatement of old-age pensions.
ATEWA’s State President, Dr. Neerajpati Tripathi, applauded the unity and discipline displayed by the participants during the Run For OPS, considering it a remarkable showcase of support for the cause of restoring old-age pensions. Noteworthy personalities, including Rakesh Raman, Om Prakash Kanaujiya, and Dr. Ramesh Chandra Tripathi, actively participated, expressing solidarity with ATEWA’s ongoing fight for pension reinstatement. The event, with its vibrant visual representation and collective strength, underscored the employees’ commitment to their struggle for pension rights.
