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Pay revision not in line with LoC rigours, say soldiers

Luv Puri

In searing summer, we have a bunker with the luxury of a fan
Counter-infiltration measures exacting

Rajouri (Line of Control): Soldiers and officers posted along the Line of Control are unhappy over Sixth Pay Commission recommendations.

Manning the LoC is the toughest job for a soldier or officer what with rough terrain and multidimensional operational responsibility. With the summer fast approaching, vigil has been stepped up to detect and prevent infiltration of militants.

The temperature is soaring. “For rest, we have a bunker with the luxury of a fan when the temperature goes as high as 45 degree Celsius. We are certainly unhappy over the Pay Commission recommendations. Obviously we deserve more,” said an officer of the rank of Major whose bunker is located on the edge of the LoC, which adjoins Kotli district of the Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.

Post-November 26, 2003 Indian and Pakistan troops have been observing a ceasefire along the LoC but the counter-infiltration posture extracts almost the same energy and resources consumed before. Patrolling continues as it proves a deterrent against militants piercing through the fenced LoC.

During monsoon, often transport links with the hinterland are lost in flooding and sepoys have to work overtime to restore them.

“We deserve more”

“We spend the prime of our life away from our families. Obviously we deserve more. Our simple request is that the bureaucracy should come here and experience our life for a day and then make their recommendations about our wage structure. Otherwise, it is unjust for both soldiers and the country at large,” says a sepoy, who now draws a salary of about Rs. 6,000. After the Pay Commission’s recommendation, his salary will increase to a minimum of Rs. 10,670.

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