Odisha MLA pay rise sparks debate: Political support meets expert resistance

The Odisha Legislative Assembly has approved a substantial hike in the salaries and allowances of sitting and former MLAs, marking one of the most dramatic revisions in recent years. On the last day of the Assembly session, the House unanimously cleared a proposal concerning the salaries, allowances and pensions of MLAs, former MLAs, the Speaker and Deputy Speaker. As per the revised structure, the salary of an MLA will rise from Rs 1 lakh to Rs 3.5 lakh, signalling a nearly three-and-a-half-fold increase.

A Long-Pending Demand Finally Approved

This revision formalises a demand that existed since 2007 during the BJD government. The present Mohan government has now endorsed it, giving legislators across party lines a significant financial boost. Notably, both the ruling side and the opposition welcomed the Bill, displaying rare unanimity during its introduction.

Also Read: Odisha CM to draw Rs 3.74 lakh monthly salary, MLAs to get 3.45 lakh after pay hike

How Justified Is the Hike?

The hike comes against the backdrop of longstanding claims raised nearly two decades ago. By approving it unanimously, both government and opposition appear to agree that a revision was overdue. However, the sharp increase from Rs 1 lakh to Rs 3.5 lakh at one go raises questions on whether the scale of the hike proportionately reflects the wider economic conditions and public expectations. While the Assembly has justified it as a formal response to a long-pending demand, the debate on the extent of the hike and its timing remains a matter the public will closely scrutinise.

“Obviously, this is good news for all MLAs, including former members. It has been a long-standing demand to revise the salaries, and naturally they are happy. We support people through our salaries, and in 17 months of the BJP government in Odisha, we have listened to everyone’s concerns. A committee has been formed under the leadership of former IAS officer Ashok Tripathy to address issues faced by teachers. During the previous BJD government, there was considerable mismanagement. There were multiple categories of teachers, but our government is working towards bringing them under one unified cadre. That process will begin soon,” said BJP MLA Agasti Behera.

Senior Journalist Prasanna Mohanty’s Counterpoint:

“I completely disagree with Agastya Behera’s remarks. I remember many MLAs travelling with us during earlier times, and if their salaries are to be increased, it should be done in a rational and justified manner. Those individuals who have been serving Odisha continuously for years must also be treated fairly. The government should take their issues seriously and address them with equal urgency,” said senior journalist Prasanna Mohanty.

With bipartisan support and decades-long demands finally codified, Odisha’s legislators are set to receive significantly enhanced remuneration, though the justification for such a steep hike is likely to remain a topic of public discussion.