In a significant demonstration of discontent, over 50 employees of the Tamil Nadu Arasu Uzhiyargal Sangam gathered outside the Department of Treasuries and Accounts office in Saidapet on Wednesday. The protest was sparked by issues with a new software system that affects the income tax deductions of employees who have opted for the old income tax regime.
Key Concerns
- Software Issues: The recently introduced software for issuing pay slips by the State government has created a significant hurdle. Employees who opted for the old income tax regime are unable to select this option in the new system, leading to higher deductions.
- Impact on Salaries: N. Amudha, the women's wing coordinator of the Sangam and the leader of the protest, highlighted that due to this software glitch, a substantial portion of the employees' salaries is being incorrectly deducted. In some cases, more than half of the salary for April 2024 was deducted as TDS (Tax Deducted at Source) from the gross salary.
- Lack of Response: Despite multiple representations to the State government, there have been no steps taken to address the issue. Employees are demanding the inclusion of the old tax slab option in the new pay slip portal to ensure proper tax deductions.
Protest Details
- Date: Wednesday, May 29, 2024
- Location: Department of Treasuries and Accounts, Saidapet, Chennai
- Participants: Over 50 employees from the Tamil Nadu Arasu Uzhiyargal Sangam
Statements
"We have been trying to get the State government's attention to this issue for months now," said N. Amudha. "The new software system doesn't allow us to select the old income tax regime, which many of us prefer due to the deductions we are eligible for. As a result, we are seeing massive deductions in our salaries, and this is unacceptable."
Demands
The Tamil Nadu Arasu Uzhiyargal Sangam is urging the State government to:
- Introduce an option in the new pay slip software for selecting the old income tax regime.
- Ensure that employees can avail the deductions they are eligible for under the old tax system.
- Rectify the software issue promptly to prevent further financial hardship for government employees.
The protest has brought to light a significant administrative issue that affects the livelihood of numerous state employees. The Sangam hopes that this demonstration will prompt the government to take swift action to resolve the problem.
Conclusion
The peaceful protest by the Tamil Nadu Arasu Uzhiyargal Sangam underscores the need for efficient and responsive administrative systems. As the employees await a resolution, the focus remains on ensuring that their rightful earnings are protected and accurately reflected in their salaries.
CAclubindia
