40 years ago, August 22, 1986: Revised pay scales

On August 22, 1986, the revised pay scales for approximately 5 million central government employees were set to take effect from October 1986, according to the Finance Minister's announcement. The interim timetable aimed to ensure the implementation of the Central Pay Commission's recommendations by the end of the month. While the commission's report, presented to the government on June 30, was largely welcomed by the majority of central staff, it faced criticism for its perceived injustice toward certain jobs and scales.

A significant number of employee organizations submitted representations highlighting the challenges they would encounter under the new scales. Union Home Minister Buta Singh engaged in discussions with Gujarat Chief Minister Amarsinh Choudhary and Jammu and Kashmir Governor Jagmohan regarding the proposed security-belt bill. He was also set to consult with the Chief Ministers of Punjab and Rajasthan on the matter.

Meanwhile, Laldenga, a former critic of the Indian Constitution, assumed the role of Mizoram's Chief Minister, leading a nine-member coalition of the Mizo National Front and Congress (I) for a six-month term. In a separate development, the plan to encircle the Bihar Legislative Assembly in Patna due to police firing at Arwal, resulting in 19 deaths, ultimately failed to materialize.