New Delhi - The Supreme Court has severely criticized the state government on the frequent appointment of personal staff of ministers. The Supreme court was hearing the writ on the failure of giving pension to KSRTC employees.

No other states give pension to employees who complete just 2 years and one day. By giving pension to the staff of the ministers’ personal staff, each year the treasury is being drained heavily.

It is believed that there are 1223 people who such pension. Those with more than 2 years’ service will get a minimum pension of Rs3550. Depending on the post and length of service, the amount is hiked. There are staff with more than 30 years’ service. Those who entered service after April 30, 2013, are entitled to contributory pension.

It is a normal practice to replace the personal staff after two years and one day, thus ensuring they receive the pension. The new staff who are appointed thereafter will also eventually receive this pension.

Governor Arif Mohammad Khan had earlier raised his concern against this pension scheme. He said it is not right to give pension without contribution from staff and this was against the constitution.

The Supreme court has now criticized the government on the same issue.