Service members, whether British or Gurkha, dedicate years—often decades—risking life and limb to protect our country. Yet, upon retirement, they receive a fraction of their salary as a pension, while politicians serving just two terms in the safety of Westminster enjoy significantly better pension benefits. This is a grave injustice that must be addressed.
As a young Gurkha soldier, I remember taking an oath:
"I swear by Almighty God that I will bear true allegiance to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth the Second, her heirs and successors, and that I will, as in duty bound, honestly and faithfully defend Her Majesty, her heirs and successors, in person, Crown and dignity against all enemies…."
Yet, we are met with discrimination.
- We undergo the same rigorous training as British soldiers.
- We serve in the same operational environments, facing the same dangers.
- We meet the same demands of a soldier’s duty.
Yet, Gurkha veterans receive 30% less pension than our British counterparts—mere peanuts compared to politicians.
Throughout my career, I contributed to National Insurance, believing it would support me in later life. But after leaving the Army, I discovered that my National Insurance number was merely temporary—a namesake with no real benefit.
Was this another calculated way to dismiss us after years of loyal service?
We have paid with our sweat, our sacrifices, and our lives. Yet, when our service is done, we are discarded and denied the dignity of fair treatment.
This injustice cannot continue.
This is not just about financial fairness—it is about honouring the unwavering commitment and sacrifices of those who serve.
