Freedom fighters’ married daughters, granddaughters now eligible for benefits in Himachal

As per the revised definition, “dependents” will now include the wife and direct descendants of the beneficiary, as well as married daughters, granddaughters, and married or unmarried grandsons and granddaughters from the side of daughters of freedom fighters. The definition also includes any other person who, in the opinion of the Himachal Pradesh Freedom Fighters Welfare Board, is or was wholly or partly dependent on the beneficiary.

The amendment formally extends the Ward of Freedom Fighters reservation and welfare benefits to the wards of daughters of freedom fighters, bringing parity with the wards of sons, who were already covered under the sch-eme. Officials said the decision ensures compliance with the SC ruling and removes discrimination in the eligibility criteria for welfare benefits extended to families of freedom fighters. The notification was issued with the approval of Himachal Pradesh governor and takes immediate effect, enabling eligible beneficiaries from the daughters’ lineage of freedom fighters to avail themselves of the benefits under the welfare fund. According to notification, issued in exercise of po-wers conferred under Section 5(1) of the Charitable Endowments Act, 1890, the state government has amended the scheme originally notified on June 8, 1994.