Parliament and State Legislators Witness Noteworthy Salary Hikes

The Central Government has announced a 24% salary increase for MPs effective April 1, while Karnataka state approved a 100% salary hike for its CM and legislators, sparking debate amid economic concerns. Both moves justify rising expenditure pressures on lawmakers tied to inflation adjustments and economic indices.

The Central Government has implemented a significant 24 percent salary hike for Members of Parliament, boosting their monthly earnings from Rs 1 lakh to Rs 1.24 lakh as of April 1. The Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs has also raised daily allowances for sitting MPs from Rs 2,000 to Rs 2,500 and increased pension benefits for former MPs, citing adjustments linked to the Cost Inflation Index.

Former MPs will now receive a monthly pension of Rs 31,000, up from Rs 25,000, with additional increments for services beyond five years increasing from Rs 2,000 to Rs 2,500 monthly. This revision reflects the provisions of the Salary, Allowances, and Pension of Members of Parliament Act, 1954.

In Karnataka, a political storm is brewing as the state government okayed a 100 percent salary increase for the Chief Minister, Ministers, and MLAs. This decision, crafted through two amendment bills to be introduced in the Assembly, is defended by Karnataka Home Minister G Parameshwara, who stresses the pressing financial challenges faced by lawmakers akin to the common citizen.

(With inputs from agencies.)