Will the Calcutta HC Uphold the Stipend for Non-Teaching Staff?
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Synopsis
The Calcutta High Court has reserved its ruling on a significant plea against the West Bengal government's stipend scheme for non-teaching staff impacted by job losses. This case raises critical questions about state support, legal implications, and the future of these workers amidst ongoing challenges.
Key Takeaways
- Calcutta High Court reserves judgment on stipend scheme.
- Stipend amounts: Rs 25,000 for Group-C, Rs 20,000 for Group-D.
- Concerns raised about the basis for stipend payments.
- Scheme established due to job losses linked to a Supreme Court ruling.
- Legal petitions highlight the complexities of state support.
Kolkata, June 9 (NationPress) The Calcutta High Court has, on Monday, reserved its ruling regarding a petition disputing the West Bengal government's announcement concerning a monthly stipend for non-teaching personnel in the Group-C and Group-D categories, who found themselves unemployed in state-run schools due to a Supreme Court directive.
A single-judge panel led by Justice Amrita Sinha has set the judgment aside after delving into the matter in two distinct phases during the court's session.
Justice Sinha cautioned the state government against commencing the stipend payments to non-teaching staff at this time. She voiced concerns about the rationale behind the state's decision to allocate these funds to non-teaching workers who have lost their jobs.
She probed into how the stipend amounts were calculated for these unemployed non-teaching staff and whether there have been previous instances where the state government had provided stipends to jobless state employees.
Moreover, she inquired what the state government expects to gain in exchange for the stipend provided to the jobless non-teaching staff.
In the previous month, the West Bengal government released a notification introducing this new initiative via the Labour Department. Under the "West Bengal Livelihood and Special Security Interim Scheme", the unemployed Group-C personnel would receive a monthly stipend of Rs 25,000, while those in Group-D would be eligible for Rs 20,000 per month.
During the announcement of the scheme, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee explained that it was set up to counteract the tendencies of certain individuals and vested interests who file public interest litigations against any of the state's decisions at the Calcutta High Court.
However, despite the state's intention to avoid a legal tussle over the scheme, three consecutive petitions were filed at the Calcutta High Court.
On April 3, the Supreme Court upheld the Calcutta High Court's decision that invalidated 25,753 school appointments made by the WBSSC, remarking that the panel had to be completely dissolved due to the authorities' failure to differentiate between "tainted" and "untainted" candidates.
Since then, both the state government and the WBSSC have submitted petitions for review in the Supreme Court seeking a re-evaluation of the ruling.
Point of View
I recognize the importance of a balanced perspective on the Calcutta High Court's involvement in the stipend debate. This situation highlights the delicate balance between government support and legal scrutiny. As we report on this ongoing matter, our commitment to delivering accurate, trustworthy information remains steadfast.
NationPress
15/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the stipend amount for Group-C and Group-D non-teaching staff?
Group-C non-teaching staff are entitled to a monthly stipend of Rs 25,000, while Group-D staff receive Rs 20,000 monthly.
Why did the Calcutta High Court reserve judgment?
The court reserved judgment to further consider the arguments regarding the basis for the stipend payments and the state's rationale.
What prompted the stipend scheme?
The scheme was initiated to support non-teaching staff who lost their jobs after a Supreme Court ruling annulled numerous appointments.
What concerns did Justice Amrita Sinha raise?
Justice Sinha raised questions about the calculation of stipend amounts and the historical precedent of such payments to job-losing employees.
What is the 'West Bengal Livelihood and Special Security Interim Scheme'?
It is a newly introduced scheme aimed at providing financial support to non-teaching staff who have lost their jobs in state-run schools.
