From 3rd Bipartite to 7th Bipartite Settlement, there were ceilings on DA for award staff. Similarly, there was slab system and ceiling for officers from Pillai Committee recommendations to 4th Joint Note. In 2005, during 8th BP Settlement, 100% DA neutralization was achieved for all. Thus, it was extended to officers also under the 5th Joint Note. Hence this 100% DA was also extended to all pensioners who retired from November, 2002. Thereafter, there have been requests from pensioners that this benefit of 100% DA neutralization be extended to pre-Nov. 2002 pensioners also.
While UFBU was pursuing the issue, some people litigated before the Courts and the issue went to Supreme Court. During 10th BPS in 2015, UFBU demanded 100% DA for pre-Nov.2002 pensioners but in view of the case pending before Supreme Court, IBA regretted their inability to accept the same, issue being sub-judice. After prolonged litigation Supreme Court rejected the claim for 100% DA for pre-2002 pensioners.
This issue was again taken up during 11th Bipartite negotiations but could not be clinched at that time. But the issue was being followed up. We are now happy that IBA has come forward to resolve the issue and the Minutes have been signed on 28-7-2022.
This benefit of 100% DA for pre-Nov. 2002 pensioners will be implemented after it is approved by the Government.
Comrades, this is a very significant and important achievement which will bring substantial financial benefits to all these senior citizen pensioners. We congratulate UFBU for this achievement.
This will also help us to pursue our demand for updation of pension for all since a common DA scheme has been achieved for all pensioners.