The Supreme Court of India issued a significant directive on Thursday, ordering the West Bengal Government to clear 25% of dearness allowance (DA) dues for state employees by March 31. This ruling has sparked widespread political reactions, with Leader of the Opposition Suvendu Adhikari leading jubilant celebrations outside the West Bengal Assembly.
Adhikari's Jubilant Response to the Supreme Court Verdict
Suvendu Adhikari, accompanied by supporters and traditional drum players known as dhakis, arrived at the Assembly in a festive mood. He hailed the Supreme Court's order as a "historic defeat" for the Mamata Banerjee-led Government. In his statements to reporters, Adhikari emphasized that the apex court had effectively stripped the Government of any further ability to delay payments, marking a pivotal moment in the long-standing struggle of teachers, police personnel, and other state employees.
Key Takeaways from the Supreme Court Ruling
Adhikari outlined three critical aspects of the verdict that he believes validate the employees' cause. First, he claimed that the Supreme Court has ruled employee dues as a fundamental right, reinforcing their legal standing. Second, the court has established a committee of retired judges to determine the remaining 75% of DA dues, notably excluding any state government representatives to ensure impartiality. Third, Adhikari asserted that this move eliminates all conspiracies and interference, ensuring transparency in the process.
He estimated that approximately Rs 10,400 crore would be disbursed to employees by March under the supervision of this court-appointed committee, promising that every penny would be recovered.
Political Implications and Future Projections
Turning to broader political implications, Adhikari criticized the TMC Government's longevity, suggesting that its proposals in the vote-on-account cannot be implemented before a new government takes over. He specifically targeted schemes like Lakshmi Bhandar, implying that the current administration lacks the capacity to fulfill promised increases, and hinted that a future BJP government would honor such commitments, drawing parallels with initiatives in Madhya Pradesh and Haryana.
Additionally, Adhikari dismissed salary increments for civic volunteers, ASHAs, and ICDS workers as "meagre" and insufficient, further highlighting his critique of the Government's policies.
Praise for Governor and Clarifications on Court Remarks
Adhikari also commended Governor C V Ananda Bose for rejecting an initial draft of the Assembly address that contained anti-Central Government and anti-BJP remarks, forcing the state to submit a revised version. He clarified that Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee's name is absent from the Supreme Court verdict, dismissing any claims of favorable observations and labeling her failure regarding the special leave petition (SLP).
He cautioned the public against relying on "tea stall talk" from advocates during hearings, stressing that only the recorded court order holds legal weight. In a concluding remark, Adhikari declared, "If a BJP Government comes to power, we will honour this judgment in full. There is no escape route left for Mamata Banerjee."
This development underscores the ongoing tensions in West Bengal's political landscape, with the DA dues issue becoming a focal point in the lead-up to potential electoral changes.
