New Delhi : Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Thursday raised serious concerns regarding the ECHS issues, urging the government to provide timely healthcare and respect to ex-servicemen who have sacrificed for the nation.
Gandhi, who recently met injured ex-servicemen at the ‘Jansansad’, said they highlighted ECHS issues such as delays in reimbursement, shortages of medicines, hospitals refusing treatment, or removal from the scheme due to outstanding dues. He noted that over 72 lakh ex-servicemen and their families depend on the Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme for medical care.
“When I raised the matter in Parliament, the Modi government tried to evade questions. They lack clarity on pending dues and have no proper explanation for delays,” Gandhi said in a Facebook post in Hindi, emphasizing the widespread ECHS issues faced by veterans.
The Leader of Opposition also criticized the Finance Bill’s proposal that could tax the disability pension of soldiers who continue service, terming it unfair to those who dedicate their lives to national defense. “Our brave armed forces deserve respect and support. Addressing ECHS issues is the least the government can do,” he added.
Rahul Gandhi Questions Defence Ministry on ECHS Budget, Pending Dues, and Tax Exemptions for Disabled Ex-Servicemen
Gandhi posed detailed questions to the Ministry of Defence in the Lok Sabha, including year-wise budget allocations, pending dues, and corrective measures for ensuring uninterrupted medical treatment under the ECHS. He also sought clarification on income tax exemptions for disabled ex-servicemen.
In response, Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth stated that the ECHS issues are being managed through a growing network of polyclinics and empanelled hospitals. While acknowledging that medical bill processing is time-consuming and occasional fund-flow constraints may arise, Seth assured that continuous efforts are being made to ensure uninterrupted healthcare for all beneficiaries.
Also read : Delhi Weather Update: IMD Forecasts Rain, Thunderstorms Till April 6
Regarding taxation, the minister clarified that income tax is not being deducted from disability pensions in compliance with Supreme Court orders. The exemptions under previous tax laws continue under the Income Tax Act, 2025, ensuring that disabled ex-servicemen retain their rightful benefits.
Gandhi’s intervention highlights the ongoing challenges within the ECHS, calling on the government to act promptly and maintain the welfare and dignity of India’s veterans.