Punjab DA Row: BJP Raises Questions Over Pending Dearness Allowance Payments

A political dispute has intensified in Punjab over pending Dearness Allowance (DA) arrears for government employees and pensioners, with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) accusing the Bhagwant Mann-led Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government of delaying payments that it claims are legally due to lakhs of beneficiaries. The issue has revived concerns over employee welfare and financial commitments in the state.

The BJP alleged that the Punjab government is citing financial constraints to justify the delay in clearing DA arrears, despite a recent Punjab and Haryana High Court ruling that, according to the party, recognised DA as an entitlement rather than a discretionary benefit. Punjab BJP president Kewal Singh Dhillon claimed that employees who were assured relief before the 2022 Assembly elections are still waiting for their pending dues.

Dhillon said government employees and pensioners have remained patient for years but continue to face uncertainty over payments. The BJP criticised the state government for providing explanations instead of taking steps to resolve the issue, alleging that funds are being spent on publicity and political activities while employee dues remain unsettled.

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The controversy has centred around the Punjab and Haryana High Court’s March 2026 judgment in the case of Surinder Singh versus State of Punjab. The BJP cited the ruling while arguing that the court had made it clear that DA cannot be withheld indefinitely on the grounds of financial difficulties. The party also highlighted the court’s observations regarding delayed payments and interest on arrears.

The BJP further compared the Punjab situation with the long-standing DA dispute in West Bengal, alleging that similar arguments are being used to delay employee benefits. The party accused the government of creating unequal conditions by claiming that while ordinary employees and pensioners are waiting for dues, senior officials continue to receive their benefits without disruption.

The issue has also become a political point ahead of the next Punjab Assembly election, with the BJP promising to clear pending DA arrears if it comes to power. Dhillon said resolving employee grievances and ensuring transparent recruitment would be among the party’s priorities. The Punjab government has not yet issued a response to the allegations, while the dispute continues to draw attention from employees, pensioners, and political groups across the state.

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