Government Asked to Resolve Long-Standing Financial Issues of Radio Pakistan Pensioners

ISLAMABAD ( WNAM REPORT):  Radio Pakistan pensioners have appealed to Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif and the Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting to take immediate notice of their long-pending financial issues and ensure the release of withheld benefits. At a time when government employees and pensioners across the country are expecting relief in the Federal Budget 2026-27, Radio Pakistan pensioners continue to face financial hardship. They have yet to receive the seven percent pension increase announced in the Budget 2025-26, while serving employees are also facing serious financial challenges.
Despite repeated efforts over the past year, including approaching relevant authorities, complaint forums and other official channels, the issue remains unresolved. Several petitions submitted before the Federal Ombudsman have also not yielded any tangible relief.
Pakistan Broadcasting Corporation (PBC), recently declared a strategic national institution and removed from the privatization list, continues to play a vital role in promoting national cohesion, interfaith harmony and strengthening the state’s narrative. Its importance has grown further in the digital age as it combines conventional broadcasting with social media outreach while serving audiences in all regional languages of the country.
Concerns have been raised over inadequate financial support for the national broadcaster, resulting in increasing liabilities and mounting operational challenges. Pensioners have reportedly been deprived of commutation payments for several years, while medical allowances are also not being provided in accordance with existing rules and regulations.
The situation has caused severe difficulties for retired employees, many of whom are senior citizens facing health and financial problems. Immediate policy decisions and government intervention are being sought to safeguard the future of the national broadcaster and protect the welfare of its pensioners.
The Prime Minister has been urged to personally look into the matter, address the genuine grievances of pensioners and ensure the release of their pending dues and benefits without further delay.