DA Case Hearing Today Faces Uncertainty: What’s Next?
DA Case Hearing Today: The Dearness Allowance (DA) case has become a matter of critical importance for West Bengal government employees and pensioners. Fresh uncertainty has emerged regarding the hearing of this case in the Supreme Court. Although the hearing is scheduled for August 26th, a sudden change in the bench has raised questions about the case’s future. Let’s delve into the latest situation and its various aspects in detail.
Uncertainty of the Hearing and Its Cause
The DA case hearing was proceeding before a bench comprising Justice Sanjoy Karol and Justice Prashant Kumar Mishra. However, recently, Justice Sanjiv Mehta has replaced Justice Mishra on the bench. This change is the primary reason for the uncertainty. Most of the substantive hearings of the case were heard by Justice Mishra, who has a deep understanding of the case’s nuances. On the other hand, Justice Mehta has only heard the case twice. Consequently, the lawyers for the petitioners may request that Justice Mishra be retained on the bench to maintain judicial consistency and for a comprehensive verdict.
United Efforts of Lawyers
In this situation, lawyers from various employee organizations, such as the Sangrami Joutho Mancha, the Confederation, and the Unity Forum, are collectively striving to move the case forward. Senior advocates like Gopal Subramanium, Bikash Ranjan Bhattacharya, and Paramjit Singh Patwalia are fighting on behalf of the employees and pensioners. Their main objective is to get a resolution as quickly as possible to ensure the West Bengal government pays the pending DA.
Impact on Pensioners
This case directly impacts the lives of about 1.5 million people in West Bengal, and it is a particularly sensitive issue for pensioners. With advancing age, it becomes difficult for them to meet medical and other essential expenses. Receiving the DA amount would provide them with some relief. Therefore, the prolonged nature of the case is increasing their anxiety.
Future Possibilities
Although a technical question has arisen due to the change in the bench, it is reported that Justice Sanjoy Karol is taking the matter seriously. Therefore, it is hoped that the case will not be delayed for long. After being stuck for a long time under the bench of former Chief Justice Chandrachur, the current bench had initiated steps to fast-track it. Now, it remains to be seen what decision is taken in the August 26th hearing and which direction the case takes. All eyes are now on the Supreme Court.
