Staff Side Urges Early Clarity on 8th Central Pay Commission Terms of Reference

Concerns Rise Over Delay and Ambiguity; Pensioners Seek Assured Inclusion in Pay Revision

In a strong push for transparency and timely action, the Staff Side of the National Council (JCM) has urged the Cabinet Secretary of the Government of India to expedite the finalization and circulation of the Terms of Reference (ToR) for the 8th Central Pay Commission (CPC). The appeal, made through a formal communication dated 18 June 2025, highlights growing anxiety among Central Government employees and pensioners due to the prolonged delay in formal announcements.

Background: Awaiting ToRs Since January Notification

The Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions (DoPT), through its letter dated 23 January 2025, had confirmed the Government’s decision to constitute the 8th CPC and invited suggestions from stakeholders. In response, the Staff Side submitted detailed proposals.

However, the communication notes that no further updates have been received despite a preliminary meeting being held. This silence from the government, it states, has fueled speculation and uncertainty, particularly on whether the commission’s recommendations will benefit both serving employees and pensioners equally.

Pensioners in Focus: Fear Over Discretionary Benefits

The letter, signed by Shiva Gopal Mishra, Secretary (Staff Side), also draws attention to a critical issue flagged in the Finance Bill, which reportedly gives the government the discretion to deny pay fixation benefits under the 8th CPC to pensioners.

This clause, the staff body warns, has sparked serious insecurity and resentment among retired personnel, who expect equal and fair treatment alongside serving staff.

Key Demands Raised by the Staff Side

To restore morale and ensure clarity, the JCM (Staff Side) has placed the following three-point request before the Government:

1. Issue Clear Guidelines on ToR
   The government should release the finalized Terms of Reference of the 8th CPC and circulate them widely to eliminate confusion and reassure employees.
2. Confirm Inclusion of Pensioners in Pay Revision
   A formal directive should clarify that pensioners will be entitled to pay revision benefits under the 8th CPC, ensuring parity and fair treatment.
3. Constitute the 8th CPC Committee at the Earliest
   The immediate constitution of the CPC committee is essential to begin the review process without further delay.

A Call for Empathy and Swift Decision-Making

Highlighting the urgency and sensitivity of the matter, the letter appeals for a sympathetic and judicious decision that could significantly boost the morale of both current employees and pensioners. It also reiterates the need for reaffirming the Government’s commitment to a fair and inclusive pay policy.

The letter has also been marked to the Ministry of Finance and the DoPT, along with General Secretaries of all affiliated unions, underscoring the wide concern across administrative and union channels.

View original letter: