I am alive

Pensioners used to collect their pensions by presenting their pension books in which appropriate entries were made at each transaction. A few years ago the relevant authorities advised pensioners to open a single-holder pension account in an authorised bank. All went smoothly until the bank started asking for certificate of life – to prove that the pensioner is alive.

Every six months, pensioners have to prove to bank managers that they are alive. Surprisingly, pensioner’s ID retirement cards will not suffice. Only a certificate attested by serving gazetted officer in Grade 17 or above will do the needful. Ours is perhaps the only country that demands an attested certificate of life – which can be easily tampered with. This new process is a nuisance for senior citizens who have to go and get their certificates signed after every six months. It is hoped that the relevant authorities will have a look at this matter and will waive the process to avoid creating needless difficulties for pensioners.

Dr Alaf Khan

Peshawar