DA Controversy: DA is Not Mandatory, It is Optional! State in Uproar Over Mamata’s Remark, Conflict Before Supreme Verdict

DA Controversy: The long-awaited verdict on the Dearness Allowance (DA) case for West Bengal government employees is currently pending in the Supreme Court. Just when lakhs of state employees were eagerly looking towards the apex court for a resolution, a remark by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has added fuel to the fire. Speaking at a Business Conclave held at the Dhono Dhanyo Auditorium in Kolkata on Thursday, the Chief Minister’s comments regarding DA have sparked a massive controversy across the state.

The Chief Minister’s Controversial Statement

While addressing the gathering at the Business Conclave, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee clearly stated the government’s stance on Dearness Allowance. She explicitly mentioned that providing DA is not a mandatory obligation for the government. Her statement immediately caught the attention of the media and the attendees. Here is what the Chief Minister specifically said:

• Optional Matter: The Chief Minister stated in clear terms, “Giving DA is not mandatory.”
• Current Situation: She further added, “Even then, we are providing DA at the rate of 8%.”

Following this statement, a wave of anger has spread among the government employees. At a time when protests are ongoing demanding DA at par with central government rates, hearing such words from the administrative head of the state has left many disappointed and furious.

Strong Reaction from Sangrami Joutha Mancha

Bhaskar Ghosh, the convener of the Sangrami Joutha Mancha, has strongly criticized the Chief Minister’s remarks. Countering the argument, he claimed that DA is not a charity but a constitutional right of the employees. Mr. Ghosh questioned that if DA is indeed not mandatory, why is the state government paying 18%? In the past, it was reduced to zero, so why has it been reinstated now?

He further explained that there is a specific mathematical formula followed across the country for providing DA. It does not depend on the whim of any individual. The Sangrami Joutha Mancha has issued a warning that the employees will claim their pending 40% DA as their rightful due.

Current Status of the Case in Supreme Court

Amidst this war of words, all eyes are now on the Supreme Court. Although the hearing for the DA case concluded on September 8, the judgment was reserved. With December coming to an end and the Supreme Court’s winter vacation scheduled from December 22 to January 2, there is almost no possibility of the verdict being announced this year.

While the legal battle and street protests are at their peak, the Chief Minister’s “not mandatory” remark has further complicated the situation. It remains to be seen what verdict the Supreme Court delivers in the new year and what steps the state government takes in response.