Mamata Banerjee's Pre-Poll Masterstroke: DA Arrears & $13 Pay Hike for Religious Leaders Dominate ABP Ananda Discussions
Kolkata is buzzing, and if you've been scrolling through ABP Ananda today, you'll know Didi just pulled off a brilliant pre-election move. Exactly one hour before the Election Commission was set to announce the poll schedule, Mamata Banerjee dropped not one, but two major announcements that have got everyone from North Bengal to the Sundarbans talking.
It was around 2:40 PM when she tweeted the first news: a $13 monthly increase for purohits and muezzins. Effective immediately, these spiritual leaders—the ones who perform pujas at your local temple and give the azaan from the mosque—will now receive $54 instead of $41. She made it clear it's not just about the money; it's about honouring the people who hold our communities together. She also cleared all pending applications, so many more families will benefit.
Then, barely 20 minutes later, came the real game-changer: the state is finally clearing the ROPA 2009 DA arrears. Lakhs of government employees, teachers, panchayat workers, and municipal staff have been waiting years for this. The notifications are out, and payments will start hitting bank accounts from March 2026 itself.
Impeccable Timing
Let's be honest—this wasn't accidental. For weeks, every channel has been filled with election speculation. The BJP had been making big promises, with Amit Shah himself saying they'd implement the 7th Pay Commission within 45 days if they win. And just when everyone thought the TMC was on the back foot, Didi pulls this out of the hat.
By clearing the DA arrears—a demand that even went to the Supreme Court—she has won over a massive vote bank overnight. These aren't just employees; they're fathers, mothers, and neighbours in every constituency. And by linking it to her "Ma-Mati-Manush" government, she's framed it not as a panic move, but as a promise delivered.
More Than Just Numbers: A Message to Every Bengali
The $13 increase for religious heads is a smart move. It speaks directly to the heart of Bengal's social fabric. The state has been supporting purohits since 2020 and imams since 2012, but increasing it right before the model code of conduct kicks in sends a clear signal: this government cares about every tradition, every community.
Here's why everyone is glued to their screens right now:
- The employees finally win: After three years of protests and court cases, state staffers can finally breathe easy. They were stuck on the 6th Pay Commission while the rest of India moved on—now that's sorted.
- Hindus and Muslims together: By simultaneously increasing allowances for purohits and muezzins, Didi reinforces the inclusive narrative that has always been her strength.
- A pre-poll knockout: With the EC announcement looming, the opposition is left scrambling. How do you counter a government that just put cash in people's pockets?
I've been watching the ground reports on ABP Ananda, and the reaction is electrifying. In the districts, from Malda to Jhargram, people are discussing this at coffee stalls. It feels like the election campaign has just exploded—not with a rally, but with a few tweets from the CM's office.
The next few days are going to be intense. With the poll schedule now officially out, every move will be analysed. If you want the real pulse of Bengal—not the spin from Delhi, but the actual ground reality—stay tuned. This is just the opening act in what promises to be a thrilling contest for the state.