8th Pay Commission: Is the Delay Causing Uncertainty
The Staff Side (JCM) is raising serious concerns about the delay in forming the 8th Central Pay Commission (CPC), stating it’s causing widespread uncertainty and unrest among central government employees and pensioners.
Despite earlier assurances from the Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions (DoPT) about constituting the 8th CPC and inviting suggestions for its Terms of Reference (ToR), the Staff Side reports a complete lack of further communication from the government.
Shiva Gopal Mishra, Secretary, Staff Side, National Council (JCM), highlighted in a letter to the Cabinet Secretary on June 18, 2025, that this prolonged silence is leading to speculation and apprehension about whether the 8th CPC initiative is genuinely moving forward.
Key Concerns:
- Credibility Doubts: Employees are questioning the sincerity of the government’s announcement regarding the 8th CPC.
- Pensioner Anxiety: A significant worry has emerged among central government pensioners, as a recent finance bill, according to the Staff Side, appears to grant the government discretion over extending 8th CPC pay fixation benefits to them.
Staff Side Demands:
To address these growing concerns and restore confidence, the Staff Side urges the government to:
- Immediately issue clear and widely circulated guidelines on the finalized Terms of Reference (ToRs) for the 8th CPC.
- Formally clarify that the benefits of pay fixation and revision under the 8th CPC will be extended to all Central Government pensioners.
- Constitute the 8th CPC committee without further delay.
The Staff Side emphasizes the urgent need for transparent communication and concrete action to dispel ambiguities and ensure fairness for all central government employees and pensioners.