After Odisha BJP, BJD also seeks reconsideration of MLA salary hike amid public outrage

The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) on Friday urged CM Mohan Majhi to reconsider the Bill related to a hike in salary, allowances, and pension of Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs), which was recently passed in the Odisha Legislative Assembly. 

While the party had supported the Bill during its passage, the BJD stated that growing public resentment has prompted it to seek a review of the decision.

The Bill, which proposes an increase in the salaries, allowances, and pensions of MLAs, was passed in the Assembly earlier this month. However, since then, the move has drawn widespread criticism from the public, with many questioning the timing and justification of the hike. 

Also Read: BJP MLAs ask CM Mohan Majhi to reconsider salary hike citing public sentiment

Acknowledging the public sentiment, the BJD said it believes the matter needs to be reconsidered in the larger interest of the people. BJD leaders said that although it had initially extended support to the Bill, it respects public opinion and does not wish to ignore the concerns being raised across the state.

“The people of Odisha are against the bill. Likewise, our supremo and former Odisha CM Naveen Patnaik also never takes his salary. So, we request CM Mohan Majhi to reconsider the hike in respect to the people’s opinion,” stated BJD leader Pramila Mallik.

Earlier, BJP MLAs had urged the Chief Minister to review the decision on the salary hike. The Leader of the Opposition and BJD supremo Naveen Patnaik had also written to the Chief Minister, stating that he would not accept the increased salary in view of public opposition.

All eyes are now on the state government’s response and whether it will initiate a review of the controversial legislation.