Rajasthan’s decision to suspend pensions for more than 300,000 beneficiaries under the Social Security Pension Scheme has stirred significant unrest. The Social Justice and Empowerment Department has halted pensions for those whose annual income or electricity bills exceed set thresholds—₹48,000 for income and ₹24,000 for electricity bills—pending verification. Notices have been sent to pensioners exceeding these limits as part of efforts to ensure transparency.

Many elderly pensioners have expressed distress over the suspension, saying the pension was crucial for meeting their personal expenses. Premdan Singh of Civil Lines lamented that he now has to repeatedly seek financial help from family, a painful change from his previous independence.

The government has directed district collectors to review the income details and revoke pensions for beneficiaries exceeding the allowed limits. However, the move has been criticized for its insensitivity, with several pensioners claiming it is unfair to withhold pensions before conclusive proof is established.

Political opposition has also condemned the action. Former minister Pratap Singh Khachariyawas accused the current BJP government of dismantling a scheme meant to protect the elderly and poor, alleging a disregard for the very individuals the pensions were designed to support.

With over 300,000 pensioners under investigation and mounting public frustration, the government faces growing pressure to balance transparency with compassion in handling social security pensions.