Fact-Check on DA Arrears: Has the West Bengal Government Really Announced a Payment Date?
DA Arrears: A piece of news has recently gone viral claiming that Nabanna (the West Bengal state government) has announced the payment date for the first installment of Dearness Allowance (DA) arrears for state government employees. But how true is this claim? Our fact-checking reveals some crucial details.
The Claim vs. The Reality
According to various news reports, the Supreme Court has ordered the West Bengal government to pay 25% of the outstanding DA arrears to its employees within Six Weeks. Some reports have also mentioned this deadline as three months, but as per the judgement order of the Supreme Court it is confirmed that the deadline is six weeks. And calculating the date the deadline is sets to 27th Jun 2025.
However, the key point is this: the directive came from the Supreme Court, not the state government. The state government has not independently announced any specific date. Therefore, the claim that “Nabanna has announced the DA payment date” is not entirely accurate.
What is the Real Story?
- Supreme Court’s Directive: The apex court issued this interim order on May 16, 2025. The next hearing in the case is scheduled for August.
- Period of Arrears: This directive applies to the dues accumulated between 2009 and 2019.
- Current Situation: Currently, West Bengal state government employees receive DA at a rate of 18%, whereas central government employees receive it at 55%. This significant gap has been the subject of a long-standing legal battle.
- State Government’s Role: The state government had appealed to the Supreme Court against a Calcutta High Court verdict that had ordered it to pay DA at the central government’s rate. The Supreme Court’s current order is a development in that ongoing case.
What Does This Mean for Government Employees?
As a result of this ruling, state government employees now have a specific timeframe within which they can expect to receive a portion of their dues. This is undoubtedly a significant step forward. However, the exact date when the money will be credited has not yet been announced by Nabanna. The state government will be obligated to pay this amount within the deadline set by the court.
Therefore, do not be misled by news on social media or other platforms claiming a “payment date has been announced.” Wait for official information and rely on credible news sources. We will certainly update you if and when the state government issues a formal notification on this matter.
