THE word ‘pension’ is derived from the Latin ‘pensio’ meaning payment to support a retired individual, or a sustenance allowance. Contributory pension fund is based on regular periodic payments by an individual with or without contribution by the respective employer.

Payment to beneficiaries of such funds is mandatory. In contrast, pension given by the state, funded by the taxpayers, is conditional in the sense that the bene-ficiary is not gainfully employed, and does not receive social security benefits from any other entity. Given the huge impact of over Rs1.04 trillion on the national exchequer and the economic crisis the country is facing, it is time to rationalise the state pension scheme.

Individuals who migrate to countries that offer social security benefits to the elderly, or are gainfully employed, should cease to be paid by the state. Unfortunately, what is happening is that individuals who have sworn allegiance to another country and its constitution are being paid pension in foreign exchange. This is an abuse that this country can no longer afford. In fact, this is wrong even if we can afford it.

The primary responsibility of the state is to citizens who live in the country, and not to those who have of their own free will decided to migrate and live in foreign countries, especially those where the oath of citizenship explicity requires them to revoke any allegiance or loyalty they may have to any other state.

Even all perks, such as allotment of multiple plots of land, must be withdrawn, except one plot given to such individuals to help them build a house, as soon as they migrate to another country irrespective of whether they were affiliated with bureaucracy, armed forces or the judiciary.

Malik Tariq Ali
Lahore

Published in Dawn, May 21st, 2025