DA not a matter of right, Kerala govt tells HC

KOCHI: Kerala govt has contended in the high court that dearness allowance (DA) cannot be claimed as a matter of right and it is the administration’s prerogative to sanction such benefits. The argument has been put forth in a counter-affidavit filed in response to a petition seeking DA arrears for govt employees.The affidavit, filed by K A Navas, under secretary in finance department, also stated govt was not in a position to specify a time frame for the disbursement of the arrears as DA is not a statutory benefit.