Q & A (8)

Readers may send in their Questions through email for a Q & A session with ‘Q&A’ as the subject. For rules, please read this post.

When are the new OROP scales expected ? (Ex-Hav S S Sudan)

There is nothing called the ‘OROP scales’ in the offing. The letter regarding the new improved pensionary benefits for defence personnel (does not include Officers) is expected to be issued any time now. Also the letters concerning improvement of pension of Lt Gens, broad-banding of disability percentages for pre-96 disability pensioners as well as grant of percentage system of disability element for pre-2006 disability pensioners, are also expected to be issued.

I had been granted 40% disability by the medial board but have been granted a disability pension by treating my disability as 20% only. On my query I have been informed that though the release medical board had granted me 40% disability, the govt accepted it as 20% only. Is this right on the part of the competent authority ? (ABC)

The Hon’ble Courts have held time and again that administrative or accounts authorities cannot override the percentage granted by a medical board. Such an action is patently against the law laid down by the Hon’ble Courts including the Hon’ble Supreme Court.

I am a serving officer but was refused entertainment tax exemption by a cinema in Panchkula, Haryana. The cinema manager said that I had to be in military uniform to claim such exemption. Where do I file a complaint ? (A serving Captain)

On intervention of the Hon’ble Punjab & Haryana High Court, the requirement of wearing uniform in Haryana Cinemas / Theatres / Multiplexes has been abrogated. You may learn more about it by clicking here. The manager may not be aware of the same and you may complain to the Excise and Taxation Commissioner of Haryana about the said incident.

A relative of mine (PBOR) had died on duty. His mother (who is a widow) was totally dependent upon him. The special family pension is however being paid only to the widow of the deceased and not to his mother. The DPDO says that special family pension can only be paid to a widow. Is this correct ? (Lt Col P K Sharma)

No, the DPDO is wrong. Special Family Pension (SFP) is not meant only for the widow but for the entire family in accordance with Regulation 215 of the Pension Regulations. The said SFP can be divided between the widow and her mother-in-law (and other heirs too) in case the widow refuses to look after the mother of her late husband. Take note however that Ordinary Family Pension (OFP) cannot be divided under the same circumstances.