Pithoragarh/Dehradun: The protest by ex-servicemen in this border district has sharpened into a direct threat to both the Centre and the state government.
On Day 54 of their continuous dharna, the Ex-Servicemen Organization warned that it will launch an “Apmaan Yatra” if their demands continue to be ignored.
What started as a protest has now turned into a firm stand on dignity.
Addressing the gathering, veterans said they are the same soldiers who served the nation in extreme conditions—be it scorching heat, freezing snow, or relentless rain—without hesitation.
“Sitting on a protest for our own land and our own people is a small sacrifice,” they said, adding that they are prepared to go to any extent if needed.
Sending a SOS to the double engine governments—both at the Centre under Prime Minister Narendra Modi and in Uttarakhand led by Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami—the ex-servicemen said continued neglect will only strengthen their resolve.
“Now the decision lies with the government—whether to test the patience of soldiers or show sensitivity and come forward for dialogue,” they said.
While keeping the door open for talks at any level—Centre, state, or administration—the organization made it clear that there will be no compromise on dignity.
The veterans also accused the authorities of double standards, pointing out that while “Samman Yatras” are being promoted, the concerns of ex-servicemen are being sidelined.
Issuing a clear warning, they said if this “indifference” continues, they will be compelled to take out an “Apmaan Yatra” to expose the gap between the government’s claims and ground reality.
The protest drew support from local representatives and citizens, including Gram Pradhan Simli Jamarari Ravindra Mahar, Ramlila Committee President Chandrashekhar Mahar, and several others such as Vijendra Mehta, Pratap Khadayat, Gopal Bohra, Mahadev Giri, Rajendra Jora, Anand Bisht, and Subedar Major Hari Nandan Joshi.
The ex-servicemen ended with a firm demand for immediate and decisive action, warning that further delay will only deepen the crisis surrounding the dignity, future, and legacy of this frontier district.
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