Rights panel orders timely release of subsistence allowance

The State Human Rights Commission (SHRC) has directed the authorities to sanction subsistence allowance for suspended employees without delay, observing that it is a right directly linked to their livelihood.

Commission judicial member K. Baijunath issued the order while considering a complaint that the subsistence allowance due to a suspended traditional chenda artist at the Maha Shiva Temple, Thriprangode, had not been released as required.

The Commission directed the authorities to process such payments in accordance with the prescribed rules and procedures.

The complainant alleged that although the trustee had sanctioned subsistence allowance for the period from November 2023 to February 2026, the amount had not been paid. The complainant, who is above 65 years of age, said he was being denied the benefit despite the sanction.

The Commission also instructed the complainant to submit the required documents and certificates promptly and cooperate with the procedures for processing the allowance.

The temple executive officer told the Commission that the delay occurred due to non-issuance of the required non-employment certificate.