Thiruvananthapuram: The swift decision by the newly formed V.D. Satheesan-led UDF government to release the Dearness Allowance (DA) for state government employees has drawn a sharp contrast with the performance of the previous LDF administration. While the Satheesan government sanctioned the first installment of DA within just five months of assuming office, the second Pinarayi Vijayan government took a staggering 35 months to do the same.
When the second Pinarayi Vijayan government assumed office in May 2021, state employees had to wait until March 12, 2024 (the 35th month) for their first DA installment. The continuous delay under former Finance Minister K.N. Balagopal had triggered widespread discontent among government employees and service organizations.
In stark contrast, after taking charge in May 2026, Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan prioritized employee welfare, issuing orders for the first DA installment in his fifth month in office. The prompt action has put the former LDF leadership on the defensive, exposing what critics describe as administrative inertia and financial mismanagement during their tenure.
