Is Bengal Lagging Behind Bihar in DA and Op Sindoor Compensation Payments?
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Synopsis
Bihar's recent dearness allowance hike challenges West Bengal’s compensation policies for martyrs. Suvendu Adhikari criticizes Mamata's government for its shortcomings in supporting state employees and the families of fallen heroes. This article delves into the financial disparities between the two states, raising questions about fiscal responsibility and prioritization.
Key Takeaways
- Bihar’s dearness allowance is now at 55 percent.
- West Bengal’s allowance stands at only 18 percent.
- Bihar compensates martyrs' families with Rs 50 lakhs.
- West Bengal's compensation is Rs 10 lakhs.
- Supreme Court mandates immediate payment of dues in West Bengal.
Kolkata, May 18 (NationPress) The announcement from the Bihar government regarding a two percent increase in the dearness allowance for its employees, coupled with the Mamata government's minimal compensation for the families of the martyrs from Operation Sindoor, has prompted the Leader of Opposition (LoP) in West Bengal, Suvendu Adhikari, to voice his concerns.
On Sunday, Adhikari criticized the Mamata administration by contrasting the financial frameworks of the two neighboring states across various categories.
The Bihar government, by implementing this increase, aligns its dearness allowance with that of Central government employees at 55 percent. In contrast, Adhikari highlighted that Bengal's payment structure falls short.
He stated that in terms of both dearness allowance and compensation for the families of Operation Sindoor martyrs, Bihar significantly outpaces the West Bengal government.
He pointed out that while state government employees in Bihar now receive their dearness allowance at 55 percent, matching the Central government's rate, their counterparts in West Bengal only receive it at 18 percent.
Recently, a division bench of the Supreme Court ordered the West Bengal government to promptly disburse 25 percent of the accumulated dearness allowance dues to its employees, which could lead to an immediate outflow of around Rs 12,000 crore from the state treasury.
Adhikari also emphasized the disparity in compensation for the families of Operation Sindoor martyrs between the two states.
“While the West Bengal government allocated merely Rs 10 lakhs to the family of a martyr from Operation Sindoor, Bihar has declared a compensation of Rs 50 lakhs for the families of martyrs in the same operation,” Adhikari noted.
Even economists consider the increase in dearness allowance payments as a testament to the fiscal responsibility exhibited by the Bihar government, despite its financial constraints. In contrast, West Bengal's excise revenue constitutes over 20 percent of its total tax revenue.
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize the ongoing disparities in government compensations and allowances across states. The discourse surrounding fiscal policies is vital, especially in challenging times. Bihar's proactive measures contrast sharply with West Bengal's approach, prompting discussions on governance, accountability, and the support extended to families of martyrs. We encourage readers to engage with these critical issues.
NationPress
08/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current dearness allowance rate in West Bengal?
The dearness allowance rate for state employees in West Bengal is currently at just 18 percent.
How much compensation does Bihar provide to Operation Sindoor martyrs' families?
The Bihar government has announced a compensation of Rs 50 lakhs for the families of the martyrs of Operation Sindoor.
What action did the Supreme Court take regarding West Bengal's dearness allowance?
The Supreme Court directed the West Bengal government to pay 25 percent of the accrued dearness allowance dues to its employees.
What was the dearness allowance rate announced by Bihar?
Bihar announced a dearness allowance rate increase to 55 percent, matching that of Central government employees.
How does West Bengal's excise revenue compare to Bihar's?
West Bengal's excise revenue constitutes over 20 percent of its total tax revenue, while Bihar faces financial challenges in this area.
