TV
A robust appeal for the enhancement of salaries for current legislators and pensions for former members was made in the Odisha Legislative Assembly on Friday.
Also Read: Odisha MLAs demand hike in salary and pension, cite inflation
This gained momentum when Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) legislator, Padma Lochan Panda, called for an immediate review. During the 'Zero Hour' of today’s session, members from both the Opposition and the ruling parties expressed unified support for the cause.
MLAs argue for salary, pension hike
According to sources, concerns were raised over the fact that the monthly remuneration for members of the Legislative Assembly is notably lower compared to other State Assemblies across India. This financial predicament was also described as unsustainable, emphasising the necessity for prompt corrective measures.
Udala BJP legislator Bhaskar Madhei further urged the implementation of the Committee's recommendations concerning salary and allowance increases.
“Salaries of the MPs have been hiked in the meanwhile. MLAs have personal expenses and staff payments as well. Cost of living has increased due to the skyrocketing prices of essential commodities. A committee was previously constituted and Bhaskar Madhei was the chairman of that committee. He had submitted a report and based on the report salaries of the MLAs should be escalated. The State government should consider this and the Speaker should give a ruling in this regard,” BJD MLA Ramesh Behera said.
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“Be it the former MLAs or the current MLAs, they are getting much lower salaries. It is not that the exchequer (treasury) will get exhausted if salaries are increased. Hence, it is everyone’s unanimous opinion that the Government must consider the legislators’ demand,” BJP MLA Purnachandra Sethy stated.
