The Supreme Court has instructed the West Bengal government to disburse 25% of the pending dearness allowance (DA) arrears to state government employees by March 31. The directive comes amid a long-standing legal battle regarding the payment of DA dues in the state.

DA Payments Must Be Completed Within Deadline

In its ruling, the apex court made it clear that the partial fulfillment of the DA arrears must be completed by the end of the current financial year. The pending DA pertains to allowances due as part of salary benefits owed to government employees. The court’s verdict forms part of an ongoing matter concerning the implementation of pay commission recommendations and fair compensation for public sector staff in West Bengal.

Political Reactions Follow Court Verdict

Following the Supreme Court’s order, Leader of the Opposition in the West Bengal Assembly, Suvendu Adhikari, described the decision as a setback for Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee’s administration and a significant development for state employees. He termed it a ‘major win’ for the workers who had been seeking parity in DA payments with central government employees.

Dispute Surrounds Disparity with Central Government Staff

One of the central issues in the DA controversy has been the gap between the allowances provided to state government employees in West Bengal and those received by their central government counterparts. Employee unions and opposition leaders have consistently raised concerns over the increasing difference, demanding that the state align DA rates with those established at the national level.

West Bengal Government Yet to Announce Payment Plan

While the Supreme Court has set a deadline for partial payment, the West Bengal government has not yet released details regarding the disbursement process or funding arrangements. The administration had previously cited financial constraints as one of the reasons for the delay in DA disbursal.

Legal Proceedings to Continue on Remaining DA Dues

The Supreme Court also indicated that the directive to release 25% does not resolve the entire dispute. Further hearings will address the remaining amount and other related issues. Employee associations have welcomed the ruling but have stated that they will continue to press for full payment of outstanding dues and parity in future allowances.

Background of the DA Dispute

The conflict over dearness allowance payments in West Bengal has been ongoing for several years. Multiple legal petitions have been filed seeking enforcement of DA payments in line with recommendations from salary commissions. The case ultimately reached the Supreme Court after earlier proceedings in the Calcutta High Court, where orders were issued in favour of employees prompting an appeal from the state government.

Next Steps Awaited in Compliance and Further Hearings

With the March 31 deadline now set, all eyes are on how the West Bengal government implements the order. Employees across departments are expected to monitor progress closely, as future court directions may determine the timeline and scope of the remaining dues.