DA arrears to be released once finances improve: CM Sukhu
Photo used for indicative purpose only. Source: Internet
Shimla, Aug 21,
Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Thursday assured the Himachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly that pending arrears and Dearness Allowance (DA) instalments of government employees will be released once the State’s financial position improves.
During Question Hour, BJP MLA Vikram Thakur pressed the government on the issue of DA and arrears, referring to a detailed question raised in the House. The question sought clarification on whether (a) three DA instalments — 4% w.e.f. July 1, 2023, 4% w.e.f. January 1, 2024, and 3% w.e.f. July 1, 2024, totalling 11% — were due to employees, and the category-wise amount outstanding till January 31, 2025; (b) arrears of DA from July 1, 2022 and January 1, 2023 had not yet been paid, and if so, when they would be released; (c) arrears of the 6th Pay Commission for Category I–IV officers and employees were still pending, and the liability till January 31, 2025; (d) arrears of retired employees — including 42 months’ DA arrears (Jan 2016–Dec 2021), revised commuted pension, gratuity and leave encashment — remained unpaid, and the arrear-wise liability; and (e) when all these dues would be released, along with reasons for the delay.
In reply, CM Sukhu reiterated his budget speech promise but cited tight finances. He said nearly ₹4,800 crore is locked due to the restoration of the Old Pension Scheme, constraining the exchequer.
The CM informed the House that his government had already cleared 4.3% DA arrears pending from the previous regime and committed to paying the rest before the end of the financial year. Arrears for employees above 75 years of age, and subsequently for those between 70–75, have already been disbursed.
It is true that government employees and officers working in various departments of the state are due for three installments of Dearness Allowance (DA) increase — 4% from 01-07-2023, 4% from 01-01-2024, and 3% from 01-07-2024, making a total of 11%, stated the government reply. Adding,” It is also true that the government has not yet released the arrears of DA payable from 01-07-2022 and 01-01-2023. Considering the state’s financial condition, the payment of arrears of DA to officers and employees has been delayed.
Leader of Opposition Jairam Thakur demanded a fixed timeline, stressing that employees had played a role in bringing the present government to power and now expected fulfilment of commitments. He termed the delay in disbursal as a matter of privilege.
The CM countered by blaming the previous BJP government for leaving arrears worth ₹10,100 crore unpaid despite substantial central grants. “We are committed and will honour every promise,” Sukhu assured, adding that DA and arrears would be cleared in a phased manner.
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