As the festive season approaches, particularly with the upcoming Durga Puja, the Government of West Bengal has issued an appeal to all employers and employees under the Payment of Bonus Act, 1965, as amended by the Payment of Bonus (Amendment) Act, 2015. This initiative aims to ensure that workers receive their legitimate dues in a timely manner, helping to maintain industrial peace and harmony across the state.

Key Guidelines for Employers

1. Flexible Attitude Towards Bonus Payments: The government encourages employers to adopt a flexible approach when determining bonus payments. This will ensure smooth operations and support the harmonious industrial environment the state values.
2. Continuity in Bonus Rates: Employers are requested to ensure that the bonus payments for 2024 are not lower than those of the previous year. In cases of disputes, employers are urged to settle the matter amicably through negotiation.
3. Bonus for All Categories of Employees: Workers in casual employment, re-employed after retirement, or employed through contractors and having worked for at least 30 days during the year are eligible for bonus payments.
4. Clearing Past Dues: Employers who have defaulted on bonus payments in previous years are encouraged to settle those dues alongside the current year’s bonus payments.
5. Timely Bonus Payments: It is expected that all bonus payments be completed by 30th September 2024, ensuring that workers receive their bonus before the Durga Puja festivities begin.
6. Inclusivity in Bonus Payments: Many workers, especially in the IT sector, hotels, restaurants, shops, and security services, have not received bonuses in previous years. The government has expressed concern and expects that this year’s scenario will be different.
7. Ex-Gratia for Workers Exceeding Eligibility: Employers are encouraged to offer ex-gratia payments to those workers who have crossed the eligibility limit under the Payment of Bonus Act, 1965.
8. Consideration for Unorganized Sector Workers: Though many unorganized sector workers are not covered under the Payment of Bonus Act, the government expects employers in these sectors to also provide bonuses or ex-gratia payments.

Importance of Industrial Harmony

The government appeals to all trade unions and employers’ organizations to ensure a peaceful settlement of any disputes surrounding bonus payments. Industrial peace is a priority, and both employers and employees are urged to contribute to a conflict-free work environment during this festive period.