In a major financial relief move, the West Bengal government has announced an ad hoc bonus of Rs 6,800 for select government employees ahead of Eid-ul-Fitr 2024. The bonus will benefit those who are not covered under any productivity-linked bonus scheme and earn less than Rs 44,000 per month as of March 2024.
According to the state finance department, employees from the Muslim community will receive the bonus before Eid, while the rest will get it between September 15 and 19. This initiative by the Mamata Banerjee-led government aims to offer financial support to thousands of state employees.
Pensioners to Get Rs 3,500 Ex Gratia Payment
In addition to the bonus, the state government has approved an ex gratia payment of Rs 3,500 for all pensioners across West Bengal. This move is set to provide additional financial assistance to retired government employees.
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Interest-Free Advance of Rs 20,000 for Govt Employees
The West Bengal government has also sanctioned an interest-free advance of up to Rs 20,000 for government employees earning up to Rs 52,000 per month as of March 2024. This scheme aims to ease financial burdens and offer flexibility, especially during uncertain economic conditions.
Backwardness Criteria to be Reassessed, Govt Informs Supreme Court
In a parallel development, the state government has informed the Supreme Court about its decision to reassess the criteria for determining backwardness in West Bengal. The evaluation will be conducted by the State Commission for Backward Classes within three months.
Senior advocate Kapil Sibal, representing the state, requested the apex court bench, comprising Justices B R Gavai and Augustine George Masih, to defer the hearing until the evaluation is complete. The Supreme Court agreed, noting that the process will continue “without prejudice to the rights of either party”. The matter will be heard again in July.
