Ninety-six veterans from Dabhol/NTPC threaten sustained agitation if authorities fail to release decades-long pending dues; present documents and urge immediate accountability at Press Club of India.
New Delhi | December 26, 2025
A group of 96 ex-servicemen associated with Dabhol/NTPC raised their voices on Friday over 24 years of unpaid salaries and pensions, threatening an indefinite protest in Delhi if authorities fail to act promptly. The announcement came during a press conference held at the Press Club of India.
Senior veterans from Mumbai showcased extensive documentation highlighting institutional neglect and delays despite years of dedicated service. They explained that many of them, now elderly, are struggling to meet basic needs such as medical care, food, and housing due to the prolonged inaction.
The press conference turned highly emotional as journalists pressed for details, revealing the deep frustration and long-standing struggle faced by the veterans. In a symbolic act, several veterans removed their upper garments, emphasizing that after 24 years of waiting, they have nothing left to lose. This moment moved the media present, who vowed to amplify the veterans’ demands nationally and internationally. They also pledged to support the planned demonstration outside Dabhol/NTPC headquarters.
The veterans stressed that the slogan “Jai Hind, Jai Jawan” defines their identity, yet they are forced to fight for the rights they earned. Laxman Mahadik highlighted that 24 years represent a substantial portion of a working life, emphasizing that the veterans’ patience has run out after repeated delays.
Suryakant Pawar noted that all claims are fully documented and called for strict accountability from the responsible institutions. R.G. Pawar questioned how soldiers who dedicated their lives to national service now struggle for basic survival.
V.S. Salunkhe warned that constitutional remedies have been exhausted, and the agitation will escalate if immediate action is not taken. Suresh Pachpute urged the media to ensure that authorities cannot ignore the veterans’ grievances. Chandrakant Shinde added that the matter now affects the future of 96 families, not just the individuals.
Vijay Nikam clarified that if the government fails to respond promptly, the ex-servicemen will stage an indefinite sit-in outside the Dabhol/NTPC headquarters. They reiterated their commitment to peaceful and lawful methods but stressed that decades of neglect have forced them to prepare for decisive action.
This rewriting maintains all key facts while making the narrative more concise and readable, highlighting the veterans’ plight, emotional appeals, and pending demands.
