Has the SC Unearthed Bengal Govt's Delay Tactics on DA Issue?
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Synopsis
The Supreme Court has caught on to the West Bengal government's attempts to stall proceedings regarding the payment of Dearness Allowance (DA) arrears. Senior advocate Bikash Ranjan Bhattacharya highlights the necessity of timely resolution for state employees while questioning the rationale behind the government's delays.
Key Takeaways
- Supreme Court recognizes attempts to delay proceedings.
- Bikash Ranjan Bhattacharya advocates for timely payments.
- State government questioned for lack of clarity in DA payments.
- Judicial accountability is critical for employee rights.
- Potential financial obligations could weigh heavily on the government.
Kolkata, Aug 4 (NationPress) The Supreme Court has recognized the strategies employed by the West Bengal government to postpone the hearing regarding a contempt-of-court petition related to its failure to adhere to a previous court order mandating the payment of 25 percent Dearness Allowance (DA) arrears to its employees by June 30, noted senior advocate Bikash Ranjan Bhattacharya on Monday.
As a CPI(M) Rajya Sabha MP, Bikash Ranjan Bhattacharya serves as one of the representatives for the state government employees involved in the DA case.
During the hearing at the Supreme Court’s Division Bench presided over by Justice Sanjay Karol and Justice Prashant Kumar Mishra, the state government’s counsel requested additional time to present their argument.
Initially, the Division Bench appeared reluctant to grant any further delay, insisting that the case be addressed that very day. Ultimately, however, they resolved to resume the hearing on the following day while dismissing the state government's request to schedule the next hearing for August 11.
The Division Bench expressed skepticism regarding the reasons provided by the involved parties for postponement.
Bikash Ranjan Bhattacharya challenged the West Bengal government's assertion that while the Supreme Court mandated payment of a specific percentage of DA arrears, it had not defined the exact amount to be paid.
“The court’s role is to issue a verdict based on existing legal frameworks. It is not the court's duty to determine the exact amount, nor is it their responsibility to ascertain who would do so. Their strategy seemed aimed at stalling the proceedings as long as possible. They are acutely aware that if the state employees prevail, the administration will be liable for the full Dearness Allowance arrears,” Bikash Ranjan Bhattacharya elucidated.
According to the state government’s presentation to the Supreme Court, a committee has been established to assess the precise amount that needs to be allocated to the employees in compliance with the court’s order.
Point of View
It is crucial to observe the dynamics between state governance and judicial authority. The Supreme Court’s engagement in this matter underscores the importance of accountability and timely action in governmental financial commitments, especially towards employees who rely on such allowances for their livelihood.
NationPress
09/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main issue in the Supreme Court case?
The main issue involves the West Bengal government's failure to comply with a Supreme Court order to pay 25 percent Dearness Allowance arrears to its employees by June 30.
Who is Bikash Ranjan Bhattacharya?
Bikash Ranjan Bhattacharya is a senior advocate and a CPI(M) Rajya Sabha MP representing state government employees in the DA case.
Why did the state government request additional time?
The state government's counsel sought additional time to present their arguments during the hearing, which was initially denied by the Division Bench.
What does the Supreme Court's involvement indicate?
The Supreme Court’s involvement highlights the judiciary's role in ensuring governmental compliance with legal mandates and protecting employee rights.
What is the potential financial impact of this case?
If the state employees win, the West Bengal government may be required to pay the full amount of the Dearness Allowance arrears.
