Widows of former Gurkha soldiers are advocating for increased pensions, arguing that those who retired before 1997 receive significantly less than their British Army counterparts. The disparity stems from pensions being calculated based on Nepalese living costs, rather than the higher expenses in the United Kingdom, where many Gurkhas settled after their service.
Indumati Thapa, 87, whose husband served with the British Army and died in 2020, stated that her pension is so small she relies on approximately £100 a week in benefits and the generosity of friends to cover her rent, bills, and food. She lives in a modest two-bedroom flat in Reading with her friend Devisara Rana.
Pratikshya Gurung, a local Labour councillor and friend of Thapa, translated her sentiments, relaying that Thapa feels let down and would appreciate a larger pension to improve her living conditions and financial situation. Rana, who also lost her husband, expressed similar sentiments.
The UK government stated that it holds the Gurkhas' service in high regard and remains committed to supporting the welfare of Gurkha veterans and their families. However, many former soldiers and their families disagree, calling for an increase in their retirement pay to reflect their service and the cost of living in the UK.
Gurkha soldiers have a long history of serving alongside the British Army, particularly in Southeast Asia. The pension discrepancy affects those who retired before 1997, a cutoff date that continues to be a point of contention for many veterans and their families. The campaign for pension equity is being supported by local community figures and elected officials who are engaging with the government on the matter.