BREAKINGPunjab High Court Grips Govt Over Pending 16% DA
CHANDIGARH – The Punjab and Haryana High Court has officially intervened in a heated dispute between the Punjab Government and its employees regarding the non-payment of Dearness Allowance (DA) installments. A new petition has triggered a "Notice of Motion" to the State, demanding answers for the delay in benefits.
PETITIONER: Som Nath Daid & Others
NEXT COURT DATE: April 27, 2026
The DA Deadlock: From 42% to 58%
The legal challenge centers on the government’s failure to grant DA/DR installments that have been pending for months. While the current rate remains stalled for many, the petitioners are fighting for a jump to 58% effective from July 2025, matching Central Government patterns.
The court heard arguments that the government’s "speaking orders" issued throughout 2024 and 2025 have failed to address the core grievances of the staff, leading to allegations of contempt regarding previous judicial directions.
Demanded Implementation Schedule
| Installment Rate | Claimed Effective Date | Vs. Govt Implementation |
|---|---|---|
| 31% | July 01, 2021 | Delayed to Nov 2021 |
| 42% | Jan 01, 2023 | Delayed to Nov 2024 |
| 50% | Jan 01, 2024 | Still Pending |
| 58% | July 01, 2025 | Decision Awaited |
Demands for 12% Interest
Beyond the immediate hike, the petitioners are seeking a Writ of Mandamus to ensure:
- Full parity with the 6th Punjab Pay Commission recommendations.
- Immediate release of all arrears accumulated since 2021.
- Interest at the rate of 12% per annum on all delayed payments.
The State’s counsel, Mr. Swapan Shorey (D.A.G. Punjab), has accepted the notice and is expected to file a formal reply before the next hearing in April.
