Punjab government faces contempt notice over unpaid inflation allowance

The Punjab administration is reportedly on the brink of contempt of court action after it continued to withhold the dearness allowance (DA) owed to government employees and pensioners. The high court’s order to release the arrears has been repeatedly ignored, prompting legal experts to warn of serious repercussions.

Despite a double‑bench under the chief justice upholding the original judgment, the state cited administrative excuses that the court dismissed as baseless. The persistent non‑compliance has led the judiciary to consider initiating contempt proceedings, a move that could carry penalties for the officials responsible.

Punjab BJP chief Keval Singh Dhillon labeled the government’s attitude as “insensitive” toward those who have dedicated their lives to public service. He demanded immediate payment of the pending DA and strict adherence to court directives, arguing that any further delay undermines the rule of law.

The looming contempt case adds pressure on the ruling party to resolve the financial dispute swiftly, lest it face additional legal and political fallout.