West Bengal Govt Declares Bonus, Ex-Gratia Payments for Employees and Pensioners

The West Bengal government has announced an ad hoc bonus of ₹6,800 for government employees who are not covered under any productivity-linked bonus system. This applies to employees earning a revised monthly salary of less than ₹44,000 as of March 2024.

Bonus Distribution

According to the finance department’s order issued on March 18, employees from the Muslim community will receive their bonus before Eid-ul-Fitr. The rest of the eligible employees will receive the amount between September 15 and 19. The payment is applicable to employees who meet the salary criteria mentioned in the order.

Ex-Gratia for Pensioners

Pensioners in the state will receive an ex-gratia payment of ₹3,500. This amount will be disbursed following the schedule set by the finance department.

Interest-Free Advance

The government has also approved an interest-free advance of up to ₹20,000 for employees earning up to ₹52,000 per month in March. The advance will be available to eligible employees as per the terms mentioned in the order.

Court Submission on Backwardness Review

Separately, the state government informed the Supreme Court that the West Bengal Commission for Backward Classes is conducting a fresh review of the criteria for backwardness. The process is expected to be completed within three months.

A Supreme Court bench comprising Justices B R Gavai and Augustine George Masih acknowledged the state’s submission. Senior advocate Kapil Sibal, appearing for the state, requested the court to defer the hearing until the review is completed. The court agreed and scheduled the matter for July.

Conclusion 

The bonus and ex-gratia payments, along with the interest-free advance, will be implemented as per the timeline set by the state finance department. Further details will be provided through official notifications to the employees and pensioners concerned.

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