In a major relief to government employees, L-G VK Saxena has asked the Delhi Government to extend benefits of the Modified Assured Career Progression (MACP) scheme to retired principals of the education department.
Under this directive, retired principals will have the right to receive a salary at a higher grade pay level. This will be effective from the date the MACP scheme is implemented or from the date they become eligible for the scheme, whichever comes later.
The MACP scheme was introduced by the Central Government to address the issue of stagnation among government employees in their respective positions. This scheme, which became effective from September 1, 2008, entitles employees to three financial upgrades upon completing 10, 20, and 30 years of continuous service, leading to higher grade pay.
In addition to the above decision, the Lieutenant Governor has instructed the education department to promptly disburse the financial benefits to these retired officers, including any pending arrears.
This decision is expected to set a precedent for the provision of financial benefits to similarly situated employees in other government departments as well, according to sources.
The LG’s office stated that despite the eligibility of these retired officers for financial upgrades since 2008, as confirmed by various courts including the Supreme Court, they had faced unnecessary difficulties and hardships due to the indifferent and unsympathetic stance of the education department. With the Lieutenant Governor’s decision, these retired officers will finally receive the benefits they’ve been entitled to for the past 15 years.
Additionally, the LG’s office noted that the LG also dismissed a proposal aimed at moving the Supreme Court to challenge government employees’ claims for benefits under the scheme.
In response to this development, the Delhi government commented that Raj Niwas has been overseeing service-related matters in the Delhi government for the past eight years, and thus should clarify why this action was not taken earlier.
It’s important to note that the benefits under the MACP scheme are granted from the point at which an employee becomes eligible, and any delays in providing these benefits entitle the employee to receive arrears. (With inputs from PTI)
