It is sad one has to bring up the issue of old-age pensioners to the notice of higher authorities time and time again, These pensioners are leading extremely miserable lives as their monthly pension is no more than Rs 2000. They were rightfully expecting it to increase substantially during the budgetary year 2009-10. Although an increase of 20% has been given to pensioners in other categories, the poor old-age pensioners have been ignored yet again. This is absolutely traumatic for them as some of them had even harboured fantasies of a minimum increase of 40%. With their pensions as they are, they can't even meet the expenses they have at present. To add insult to injury, they are also aware that the EOBI is receiving huge amounts in contributions every month from private limited companies incorporated under the Companies Ordinance 1984. Add that to the steady stream of funds deducted from the private sector at a monthly rate of Rs 300 from every employer and Rs 60 from each employee. With this substantial contribution, EOBI is purchasing its own buildings and meeting other requirements with out giving any thought to the miserable condition of the old-age pensioners. -MUHAMMAD RAFIQ, Lahore, August 4.