<p>If all goes well, the assembly elections in Bengal are in April. Will a new pay commission be announced in the upcoming state budget before the assembly polls?</p><img><p>With assembly elections in April, will a new pay commission be announced in the budget? A dearness allowance hike might also be on the cards. What’s next for state employees?</p><img><p>Calculations suggest even a 7th pay commission won’t mean a raise! Some West Bengal state employees think a new commission might be announced in this year’s budget.</p><img><p>Some state employees think the Mamata Banerjee govt might announce a new pay commission in the interim budget to win votes before the 2026 assembly elections.</p><img><p>Many think another DA installment under the 6th Pay Commission might be announced. But they question if a new commission will truly benefit West Bengal state employees.</p><img><p>Central govt employees get 58% DA under the 7th Pay Commission, with the 8th announced. West Bengal hasn’t declared a new one; state employees remain under the 6th.</p><img><p>Employees claim they get 18% DA under the 6th Pay Commission. So, even if the West Bengal govt forms a new 7th Pay Commission, there will be no real financial gain.</p><img><p>A mega rally is called for Jan 27. A key demand is DA at central rates with all arrears, as per AICPI, and a permanent order for it.</p><img><p>The state’s interim budget follows the rally. A DA installment might be announced. Some employees say they wouldn’t be surprised if a new pay commission is also declared.</p>
