Why Did the Calcutta HC Extend the Interim Stay on Stipend Payments for Job-Losing Non-Teaching Staff in Bengal?
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Synopsis
In a significant ruling, the Calcutta High Court has extended its interim stay on stipend payments to non-teaching staff in Bengal until January 2026. This decision raises questions about the accountability and justification of state-funded stipends in the wake of job losses due to a Supreme Court order.
Key Takeaways
- The Calcutta High Court has extended the interim stay on stipend payments until January 2026.
- Payments are intended for non-teaching staff who lost their jobs as a result of a Supreme Court order.
- The scheme offers Rs 25,000 for Group-C staff and Rs 20,000 for Group-D staff.
- Legal challenges continue to affect the implementation of the stipend scheme.
- Next hearing is set for January 2026.
Kolkata, Sep 19 (NationPress) A single-judge bench of the Calcutta High Court, on Friday, prolonged the interim stay until January 2026, preventing the West Bengal government from disbursing payments under a scheme intended to provide stipends to non-teaching staff who lost their jobs following a Supreme Court ruling in April of this year.
Importantly, in May of this year, the West Bengal government released a notification introducing a new scheme via the state Labour Department. Under the ‘West Bengal Livelihood and Special Security Interim Scheme’, Group-C employees losing their jobs would qualify for a monthly stipend of Rs 25,000, while those in Group-D would receive Rs 20,000 each month.
When announcing the scheme, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee stated that it was initiated under the state Labour Department due to the actions of certain individuals and vested interests who filed public interest litigations at the Calcutta High Court against any government decision.
Nonetheless, legal challenges have been unavoidable due to multiple petitions filed against this notification.
On June 20, the same single-judge bench presided over by Justice Amrita Sinha had imposed that interim stay on stipend payments either until September 26 or until the court provided further guidance on the issue.
While granting that interim stay, Justice Sinha questioned why job-losing non-teaching staff should receive payments from the state exchequer without contributing any service in return.
This matter was revisited during a hearing at Justice Sinha’s bench on Friday, where, at the conclusion of the hearing, Justice Sinha extended the interim stay on stipend payments until the end of January next year, with the next hearing scheduled for that month.
Point of View
We prioritize accountability and transparency in government actions. This ruling by the Calcutta High Court reflects the need for a thorough examination of public expenditure, ensuring that state funds are allocated responsibly. We stand with the public interest in mind, advocating for fair and just outcomes in the realm of employment and welfare.
NationPress
20/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the Calcutta High Court to extend the interim stay?
The court extended the stay due to ongoing legal challenges against the stipend scheme, questioning the justification for payments to non-teaching staff who have not provided services.
What does the stipend scheme entail?
The stipend scheme, introduced by the West Bengal government, offers Rs 25,000 to Group-C employees and Rs 20,000 to Group-D employees who have lost their jobs.
When will the next hearing take place?
The next hearing regarding this matter is scheduled for January 2026.
What is the significance of this ruling?
This ruling highlights the court's concern over the use of public funds and the responsibilities of state officials towards jobless employees.
Who announced the stipend scheme?
The stipend scheme was announced by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee under the state Labour Department.
