MP Salary Hike Sparks Mixed Reactions Amid MPLADS Debate

The Indian government has announced a 24% salary increase for Members of Parliament, effective from April 1, 2023, raising their monthly remuneration to Rs 1.24 lakh. While some MPs welcomed the hike, others advocated for an increase in the MP Local Area Development Fund instead. Daily allowances and pensions for MPs have also risen.

In a notable financial update from the government, the salaries of Members of Parliament (MPs) have been hiked by 24%, effective April 1, 2023, aligning with the Cost Inflation Index. This adjustment elevates their monthly earnings to Rs 1.24 lakh, along with enhanced allowances and perks.

The Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs has also announced increased daily allowances for serving MPs and improved pension schemes for former members. Despite the changes, several parliamentarians expressed dissatisfaction, suggesting a need for greater MPLADS funds instead of salary increments.

Samajwadi Party MP Anand Bhadauriya criticized the hike's adequacy against inflation, whereas others like BJP MP Malvika Devi highlighted a preference for expanded MPLADS. These salary advancements are part of a broader mechanism introduced by former finance minister Arun Jaitley in 2018 for automatic periodic revisions based on inflation.

(With inputs from agencies.)