Hoshiarpur/Daljeet Ajnoha/April 12 : The issue of pending Dearness Allowance (DA) for Punjab Government employees and pensioners has intensified, with employees expressing strong resentment over long-standing dues. According to employee representatives, nearly 16% DA has remained unpaid for several years, causing widespread dissatisfaction across departments, boards, and corporations.
Taking a strict stance, the Punjab and Haryana High Court has directed the Punjab Government to release all pending DA payments to employees and pensioners by June 30, 2026. The court has clearly warned that failure to comply with the order may lead to contempt proceedings, with the next hearing scheduled for July 2, 2026.
However, reports suggest that instead of implementing the court’s directive, the Punjab Government is planning to file a review petition before a Division Bench of the High Court. This move has been widely criticized by employees, who view it as a negative and avoidable delay in granting their legitimate rights.
Amid growing anger among employees, renowned educationist and social worker Sanjeev Kumar stated that the government must prioritize clearing the dues of its workforce. He emphasized that DA is a rightful entitlement of employees and should not be delayed any further.
Sanjeev Kumar further criticized the government for spending large sums on welfare schemes and advertisements while neglecting employee payments. He pointed out that schemes offering monthly financial assistance to women and free ration distribution are being promoted, whereas employees are still waiting for their rightful dues.
He also remarked that voters in Punjab are fully aware of the current situation and such practices may have consequences in the upcoming elections. He urged the judiciary, including the Supreme Court of India, to take a serious view of “freebie culture” during elections, stating that such promises undermine the true spirit of democracy.
Employees have warned that if their dues are not released within the stipulated time, they may intensify their agitation, which could significantly impact the political landscape in the state.
