Respite for Government Employees as 7th Pay Commission Arrears Set to be Cleared

In a significant development, government employees are poised to receive a major relief as the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) has assured the Delhi High Court of expeditiously settling the long-pending 7th Pay Commission arrears. This announcement comes as a ray of hope for both current and former employees eagerly awaiting their dues.

Positive Signals from MCD:

According to recent submissions made before the High Court by the MCD counsel, there is a strong indication that the backlog of 7th Pay Commission arrears will be resolved without further delay. The MCD has underscored its commitment to ensuring timely disbursement of arrears, citing an impending receipt of approximately Rs. 738 crore from the Delhi government.

Addressing Employee Concerns:

In addition to addressing the concerns related to 7th Pay Commission arrears, the MCD has also pledged to prioritize the retirement benefits of former employees. Within a timeframe of 12 weeks, the MCD aims to streamline the process of disbursing retirement benefits, ensuring financial security for its retired workforce.

High Court Intervention:

Recognizing the urgency of the matter, the High Court has set strict deadlines for the MCD and the Delhi government to expedite the release of arrears. The court has directed the Delhi government to release the earmarked funds within 10 working days, emphasizing the consequences of non-compliance, including the initiation of contempt proceedings against the MCD Commissioner.

Progress and Pending Actions:

While the Delhi government has assured the court of its ongoing efforts to facilitate the release of funds, it has requested a brief extension until April 25 to complete the necessary paperwork. However, the court remains vigilant and has scheduled a compliance review for July 23, 2024, to ensure timely action and accountability.

Court's Concerns and Prioritization:

The Delhi High Court's proactive stance on the issue of delayed salary and pension payments reflects its commitment to safeguarding the interests of government employees. The court's recent expressions of concern regarding the financial stability of the MCD highlight the gravity of the situation and the imperative need for prompt resolution.

A Long-Standing Issue Nears Resolution

The Delhi High Court has been actively involved in addressing the issue of delayed salary and pension payments for MCD employees under the 7th Pay Commission structure.  The court previously expressed concerns about the financial stability of the MCD due to the extended delays in settling these arrears.