Odisha Legislators Push for Salary and Pension Hike

Odisha legislators from various parties have urged Speaker Surama Padhy to direct the state government to introduce a Bill to increase the salary and pension of MLAs and ex-members. The demand is driven by rising essential commodity prices and public expectations, with previous proposals for salary hikes unresolved.

Odisha legislators have called on Speaker Surama Padhy to direct the state government to introduce a Bill to increase the salary and pension of MLAs and former members. The proposal, supported across party lines, highlights the strain caused by rising essential commodity prices and public expectations.

The legislators stressed the difficulties faced by former MLAs, some of whom struggle to secure funds for medical treatment, with current provisions at a meager Rs 2,000 per month. A previous committee's proposal to increase salaries was not tabled by the BJD government.

Speaker Padhy agreed to request the state government to take suitable measures. Lawmakers emphasized high inflation rates and increased fuel costs, which have compounded their financial hardships. Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi supported the proposal due to the financial challenges faced by members and ex-MLAs, with earlier recommendations suggesting a salary increase from Rs 1 lakh to Rs 2.5 lakh per month.

(With inputs from agencies.)