DA Case: Contempt petition filed; High Court issues notice to Punjab Govt; Seeks response
Ravi Jakhu/Babushahi Network
Chandigarh, August 21, 2026: The Punjab and Haryana High Court has issued a notice to the Punjab Government on a contempt petition filed in connection with the non-release of Dearness Allowance (DA) to government employees and pensioners, seeking the government’s response.
During the hearing, the Punjab Government informed the court that it has time until August 31 to submit its compliance report in the matter concerning the release of DA to employees and pensioners.
The case relates to allegations by the petitioners that the Punjab Government had not fully complied with the court’s directions regarding the release of Dearness Allowance. Following the alleged non-compliance, the petitioners approached the High Court with a contempt petition.
During the proceedings, the state government submitted that it had until August 31 to file the compliance report. Taking note of the government’s submission, the High Court fixed October 27 for the next hearing.
The High Court has also formally issued notice to the Punjab Government on the contempt petition and sought its response. The government is now required to place its response and compliance report before the court.
DA has remained a longstanding issue for Punjab Government employees and pensioners, with employee organisations repeatedly demanding the release of pending DA dues. The ongoing court proceedings have further put the focus on the government’s compliance with judicial directions.
The next significant deadline in the case is August 31, when the Punjab Government is expected to submit its compliance report. The court is likely to consider the government’s response and report during the next hearing on October 27.
The outcome of the proceedings could have implications for the long-pending DA-related demands of Punjab Government employees and pensioners.