WB DA Arrears Update: Unions Urge Govt to Comply with Supreme Court Order

WB DA Arrears Update: The long-standing legal battle regarding the Dearness Allowance (DA) arrears for West Bengal government employees has reached a critical juncture. The Supreme Court of India has recently issued a specific directive to the state government regarding the payment of arrears under the 5th Pay Commission. This order has rekindled hope among the workforce, while simultaneously sparking speculation about the government’s next move. In this context, the ‘Sangrami Joutha Mancha’ has offered significant advice to the state administration.

Supreme Court’s Order and Deadline

The bench comprising Justice Sanjay Karol and Justice Prashant Kumar Mishra has recognized DA as a legal right of the employees. The court’s directive clarifies several key points that could impact the state’s financial and administrative decisions:

• 25% Arrear Payment: The state government must clear 25% of the arrears due under the 5th Pay Commission by March 6.
• Formation of Oversight Committee: A special committee led by former Justice Indu Malhotra has been formed to oversee the entire payment process and ensure it is conducted smoothly.
• Future Roadmap: Beyond the immediate 25%, the court has asked the government to create a clear roadmap or timeline for clearing the remaining dues.

Legal Battle vs. Employee Interests

All eyes are now on the state government to see how they respond to this Supreme Court verdict. In the past, the state has often challenged orders from the High Court or SAT in higher courts. However, this time, the ‘Sangrami Joutha Mancha’ has urged the government to take a different approach.

According to the union leadership, the state government should not challenge this verdict by filing a review petition. They argue that opting for another legal battle would be a gross injustice to the employees. Furthermore, repeated attempts to stall payments through litigation could damage the government’s image in the public eye. Therefore, complying with the court’s order and clearing the dues immediately would be the most prudent course of action.

Agitation and Government Stance

Previously, when questioned about DA, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee stated that she would not comment as the matter was sub-judice. However, now that the apex court has set a deadline, employees are waiting for the government to break its silence.

State government employees have been agitating for a long time, demanding DA at par with central rates and the clearance of arrears. They view this court order as a moral victory. Union leaders have warned that if the arrears are not paid within the stipulated time, or if the government resorts to further delays, they will be forced to launch a larger and more organized movement. It remains to be seen whether the state government will comply with the Supreme Court’s directive and transfer the arrears to the employees’ accounts by March 6.

Disclaimer: This report is published for informational purposes only. It does not constitute financial or legal advice.