New Delhi, July 30: Unverified reports on the digital platform claim the government may offer a massive bonanza to the lower strata of central government employees by this Independence Day: an increase in minimum salary using the 3.68 fitment factor. If their claims are accurate, the minimum wage will rise from Rs 18,000 to Rs 21,000.

The National Joint Council of Action (NJCA) - a consortium of employee unions which is negotiation with the government - claims they have received no such hint from the government.

A veteran union leader associated with the NJCA, on the condition of anonymity, told LatestLY there is no such indication given to us from the government. "We appeal the handful of websites running speculation stories on 7th Pay Commission to refrain from spreading rumours. Such reports are adding pain to the agony of employees," said the leader, who is also associated with the All India Railwaymen Federation.

What gives credence to the union leader's denial of the fresh speculations is the statement issued by Union MoS, Finance, Pon Radhakrishnan in the last session of the Parliament.

On being asked by a Samajwadi Party lawmaker whether the government is looking forward to raise the salaries of central government employees beyond what the 7th Pay Commission recommends, Radhakrishnan had replied, "The minimum pay of Rs 18,000 per month and the fitment factor of 2.57 are based upon the specific recommendations of the 7th Central Pay Commission in light of the relevant factors taken into account by it. Therefore, no change therein is at present under consideration."

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 30, 2018 11:54 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).