On January 13, 2025, the Odisha government announced a significant pension scheme for individuals who were imprisoned during the Emergency period from June 25, 1975, to March 21, 1977. Under this initiative, eligible detainees will receive a monthly pension of ₹20,000, starting from January 1, 2025. This decision aims to honor those who resisted the Emergency and faced imprisonment under the Maintenance of Internal Security Act (MISA) and related regulations.
The pension will be available to all living individuals who were detained during this time, regardless of the duration of their imprisonment. In addition to the pension, beneficiaries will also have access to free medical treatment as per the guidelines set by the state’s Health & Family Welfare Department.
To apply for the pension, eligible individuals must apply to their respective Collector and District Magistrate. The application should include documentation proving their detention during the Emergency, along with an affidavit confirming their imprisonment under MISA. The government has established state-level and district-level committees to identify eligible beneficiaries and ensure that support reaches those entitled.
This historic move not only provides financial assistance but also acknowledges the sacrifices made by individuals during a challenging period in India’s history. The Odisha government’s decision aligns with similar initiatives in other states, reflecting a growing recognition of the need to support those who stood against authoritarian measures during the Emergency.
