Amit Patkar Backs Goa Dairy Employees, Demands Immediate Release of Pending DA and Arrears for 188 Workers

Former Goa Pradesh Congress Committee (GPCC) President Amit Patkar has extended his support to Goa Dairy employees demanding the release of pending Dearness Allowance (DA) and outstanding arrears, which have reportedly remained unpaid since July 2023, affecting 188 employees.

Patkar said a group of Goa Dairy employees approached him and highlighted their prolonged struggle to secure their legitimate financial benefits. Expressing solidarity with the employees, he said it was unfortunate that despite repeated representations and assurances, the management and concerned authorities had failed to release the pending DA and arrears.

He pointed out that the employees have continued to perform their duties sincerely while waiting for their rightful entitlements. He said such prolonged delays reflected a lack of sensitivity towards the financial concerns and well-being of the workforce.

“Dearness Allowance is not a favour being granted to employees; it is their legitimate entitlement. Keeping 188 employees waiting for their rightful dues despite repeated representations and assurances is completely unjustified. The management and concerned authorities must stop delaying this matter and ensure immediate payment,” Patkar said.

Patkar further informed that the employees have decided to launch peaceful demonstrations from Tuesday onwards, holding two protests daily at 9.30 am and 5.30 pm, to press for the release of their pending DA and arrears.

Extending his support to the proposed demonstrations, Patkar said employees have every right to collectively raise their genuine grievances and demand justice. He urged the Goa Dairy management and the concerned authorities to take immediate steps to resolve the issue and clear all outstanding payments without further delay.

“Employees who contribute to the functioning of an important institution like Goa Dairy deserve fairness, dignity and timely payment of their legitimate benefits. I stand firmly with these employees and support their decision to demonstrate for their rights. Their voices must be heard and their demands addressed without further delay,” he added.

Patkar reiterated that he would continue to raise the issue and stand in support of the 188 affected employees until their pending DA and arrears are released.