SHRC Directs Immediate Payment of Subsistence Allowance to Suspended Temple Artist
The State Human Rights Commission (SHRC) has ordered authorities to release subsistence allowance for suspended employees without further delay, emphasising that it is a fundamental right linked to their livelihood.
Judicial member K. Baijunath issued the directive while hearing a complaint from a suspended traditional chenda artist at the Maha Shiva Temple in Thriprangode. The artist alleged that although the temple trustee had sanctioned subsistence allowance for the period from November 2023 to February 2026, the amount had not been paid.
The complainant, who is over 65 years old, stated that he was being denied the benefit despite the sanction. In response, the Commission instructed the authorities to process the payment according to prescribed rules and procedures.
The temple executive officer explained that the delay occurred because the required non-employment certificate had not been issued. The Commission also directed the complainant to submit necessary documents promptly and cooperate with the procedures for processing the allowance.
The order underscores the importance of ensuring that suspended employees receive timely subsistence allowance, which is critical for their survival.
