WB DA Update: Unity Forum Clarifies Stand on 40% Arrears and ROPA 2019
WB DA Update: Following the recent Supreme Court verdict, fresh speculations have emerged regarding the payment of Dearness Allowance (DA) to West Bengal state government employees. A significant confusion remains regarding the realization of arrears under ROPA 2019. In light of this, Debprasad Haldar, Convener of the Unity Forum, has provided crucial insights into the current legal standing and the reality of the arrears.
The Gap in ROPA 2019
While the Supreme Court’s verdict dated February 5, 2026, primarily addressed arrears under ROPA 2009, the spotlight has shifted to the substantial gap under ROPA 2019. Currently, Central Government employees and staff at Bangabhawan are receiving DA at a rate of 58%. In stark contrast, state government employees are receiving only 18%. This results in a massive shortfall of approximately 40% in DA under the ROPA 2019 structure. The Unity Forum has affirmed that they will continue their legal battle to claim this 40% outstanding amount through the courts.
Criticism of Premature Legal Action
A controversy has arisen regarding the filing of ‘Contempt Petitions’ by certain employee organizations. The Supreme Court had set specific deadlines—March 6, March 31, and April 15—for the implementation of the order. However, according to the Unity Forum, some organizations hastily filed contempt petitions before these dates expired. Mr. Haldar described this move as “childish,” suggesting that it might inadvertently benefit the state government. The government could now use these petitions as a pretext to seek more time from the court, thereby delaying the entire process of disbursing the arrears.
Status of the Monitoring Committee
As per the Supreme Court’s directive, a committee was supposed to be formed to calculate the total DA arrears (including the 25% component). However, reports indicate that no members of this committee have arrived in Kolkata yet, nor has any meeting commenced with the state government. The initial task of the committee is to determine the total quantum of money owed, after which the payment process would begin. With no visible progress on the ground, all eyes are now set on the upcoming hearing on April 15.
