A group calling itself the Concerned National Service Personnel Association (NASPA) Executives has called on the Eastern Regional National Secretariat of the National Service Scheme (NSS) to reconsider its action of forcefully enrolling incoming National Service Personnel on the SIC and GLICO insurance policies.

According to the group, their call is necessitated by some staff of the Eastern regional NSS secretariat forcing incoming service personnel to sign onto “a non-mandatory insurance policy”.

In a statement, the Concerned NASPA Executives, while recognising the importance of life insurance, expressed belief that individuals should have “the autonomy to choose whether to enroll in such policies based on their personal circumstances and preferences”.

It noted that: “Forceful insurance enrollment imposes financial strain on individuals, particularly those who are already facing economic hardships or may face during their national service. It is essential to remember that national service personnel often have limited financial resources, and forcing them to allocate a portion of their stipend towards insurance premiums may exacerbate their financial challenges.

“Personnel should have the freedom to choose insurance providers that best meet their needs and offer competitive terms and benefits. By mandating enrollment in specific insurance policies, the NSS limits the ability of personnel to explore alternative options that may provide better coverage or more favorable terms.”

“We as a matter of urgency demand that they put a stop to it,” the group stated. 

It also cautioned all persons “who are yet to do their regional validation” to read “any forms given them thoroughly before appending their signatures and should insist on not signing if they disagree to the dictates of the forms”. 

It added: “Take pictures or find a way of identifying anyone who forces an insurance policy on you and let us know.”