The West Bengal government has announced a significant bonus initiative for its employees and pensioners, offering an ad hoc bonus of Rs 6,800 to select employees not covered under any productivity-linked bonus system and earning a revised monthly salary of less than Rs 44,000 as of March 2024. This decision comes as part of the government's efforts to provide financial relief to thousands of state employees who meet the specified criteria.
The state finance department has issued an order outlining that employees from the Muslim community will receive this bonus prior to Eid-ul-Fitr, while others are set to benefit from the scheme between 15 and 19 September. Additionally, pensioners across the state will receive an ex gratia payment of ₹3,500, further extending the scope of financial support provided by the government.
Moreover, the government has taken additional steps to alleviate financial burdens by approving an interest-free advance of up to ₹20,000 for employees earning up to Rs 52,000 per month in March. This move is expected to enhance the financial stability of government employees, providing them with necessary monetary flexibility during a period marked by economic challenges. The initiative is expected to benefit thousands of government employees and pensioners across West Bengal, reflecting the administration's strategic emphasis on employee welfare.
In a parallel development, the West Bengal government has also informed the Supreme Court of its intention to re-evaluate the criteria for backwardness in the state. This process will be conducted by the state commission for backward classes, as stated in a recent submission to the court. The government has committed to completing this exercise within three months, demonstrating its dedication to addressing issues related to social equity and inclusion. The Supreme Court, acknowledging this submission, has agreed to schedule the related proceedings in July.
Senior advocate Kapil Sibal, representing the state, formally requested the bench comprising Justices B R Gavai and Augustine George Masih to defer the hearing until after the completion of the evaluation period. Sibal's request underscores the need for thorough examination and consideration of the criteria that define backwardness within the state, ensuring that such criteria are both fair and reflective of current socio-economic conditions. The court has noted Sibal’s submission, explicitly stating that the exercise will proceed "without prejudice to the rights of either of the parties in the proceedings."
These initiatives by the West Bengal government represent a dual approach to governance: immediate financial relief for its employees and long-term policy considerations regarding social justice. By addressing both economic and social dimensions, the administration aims to foster a more equitable and supportive environment for its citizens. This effort reflects a broader strategy within the state to balance immediate welfare measures with long-term systemic changes, highlighting the government's commitment to comprehensive governance.