Escalating their protests demanding One Rank One Pension (OROP) in its rightful form, ex-servicemen on Tuesday returned their medals in New Delhi and several other places across the country. Meanwhile Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar called the behaviour of the protesters as “unlike a solider” and they are being misguided.

“What the government has announced is not OROP. It is one rank several pensions,” said Maj Gen Satbir Singh (retd), Chairman Indian Ex-Servicemen Movement said. He added that the government is cheating the nation by calling it OROP.

Speaking at an event in Goa, Mr. Parrikar said, “This is unlike a soldier. Whoever are still protesting despite the announcement are being misguided.” He said the veterans can put forward their concerns before the judicial committee that is to be appointed.

The medals were returned near the domestic terminal of the airport. Sanjay Kumar, Deputy Commissioner, New Delhi range collected the medals from the veterans which will be sent to the President. Responding to questions on the course of action, Mr. Kumar termed it an “unprecedented incident” and added that they will figure out how to proceed further. Similarly medals were returned to District Commissioners in various parts of the country.

Veterans have listed seven deviations in the announcement by the government. OROP seeks parity in pension for those retiring in the same rank and duration of service, irrespective of the time of retirement.

Rajeev Chandrasekhar, MP appealed to the veterans to not return the medals as the notification issued on Saturday is a “culmination of 40 years of wait by the Veterans and Widows.” “Engage with One Man Judicial Committee and Government to sort out contentious issues”

The veterans also announced that they would observe Wednesday as black Diwali in a mark of protest.