
Central Government Employees Push for Resolution of Pending Demands
The Confederation of Central Government Employees & Workers has intensified its campaign to address unresolved grievances of public sector employees and pensioners, with a focus on financial entitlements frozen during the pandemic. A recent circular issued by the organization highlights the urgent need for the government to settle outstanding demands, including the payment of Dearness Allowance (DA) arrears from January 2020 to June 2021. These arrears, which were suspended due to the economic disruptions caused by the global health crisis, have become a focal point of ongoing labor negotiations. The Confederation has criticized the central government’s delay in addressing these issues, emphasizing that the prolonged inaction has undermined the livelihoods of thousands of employees and pensioners. Despite repeated calls for resolution, the government has yet to provide a clear timeline for fulfilling these obligations, prompting renewed protests and public demonstrations.
Key Demands Highlighted by Confederation
The Confederation has outlined a comprehensive list of demands aimed at improving working conditions and financial security for government employees. These include the restoration of the Old Pension Scheme (OPS) in place of the New Pension Scheme (NPS), which employees argue is less favorable. Additionally, the organization has called for the immediate filling of vacant posts across all departments, the abolition of outsourcing in public sectors, and the restoration of pension deductions that were reduced over the past 15 years. The demand for three missed DA installments during the pandemic remains a central issue, with the Confederation asserting that these arrears are a legal entitlement. Other key points include the removal of the 5% cap on compassionate appointments and the establishment of a democratic framework for employee unions to operate within government structures.
DA Arrears: A Major Point of Contention
The DA arrears issue has emerged as a significant point of contention between the Confederation and the central government. Typically, DA is adjusted biannually, but the pandemic caused an 18-month suspension of these hikes, leaving employees without the expected increments. The Confederation argues that the government has a moral and legal obligation to settle these pending payments, emphasizing that the financial burden on employees has grown over time. However, the government has consistently maintained that paying these arrears would strain public finances, citing the fiscal challenges faced during the pandemic. This stance has led to widespread frustration among employees, who view the delay as a violation of their rights. The Confederation has vowed to continue its agitation until the government acknowledges the legitimacy of these demands.
Government’s Stance and Financial Constraints
The central government has repeatedly stated that it cannot afford to pay the pending DA arrears, attributing the financial strain to the economic fallout from the pandemic. Officials have pointed to the fiscal impact of pandemic-related welfare measures, which they argue have caused long-term financial imbalances. However, the Confederation disputes this, arguing that the government has not provided concrete evidence to support its claims. The organization has called for a transparent financial review to determine the feasibility of settling the arrears. Meanwhile, the government has expressed concerns about the potential for further financial instability if such payments are made. This disagreement has created a stalemate, with both sides refusing to compromise despite the growing pressure from employees and pensioners.
Upcoming Protests and Calls for Action
As the Confederation prepares for nationwide protests, it has organized gate meetings and general body meetings across the country to mobilize employees and raise awareness about the unresolved issues. These gatherings, scheduled for March 10-11, aim to galvanize support for the movement and ensure that employees are informed about the demands. The Confederation has also urged union leaders to engage in active outreach to prevent further financial hardship for workers. The organization remains resolute in its call for immediate action, emphasizing that the government must prioritize the welfare of its employees. As the situation evolves, the outcome of these protests could determine whether the government revisits its position on the DA arrears and other pending demands.