Vox Pop: Public fury erupts over Odisha MLAs’ threefold salary hike

Public resentment is rising across Odisha after the State government approved a threefold increase in the salaries of MLAs. The decision has sparked widespread criticism, with many questioning the timing and justification of such a steep hike.

Job aspirants - already demoralised by repeated exam delays, irregularities, and administrative lapses- have expressed deep frustration. Many argue that salaries should be linked to performance, and that MLAs, too, should be required to present periodic 'report cards', similar to ministers. The youth, in particular, feel disillusioned, questioning the value of years of preparation when recruitment exams themselves are repeatedly mishandled.

The newly revised pay now takes an MLA’s monthly earnings to around Rs 3.5 lakh, making Odisha’s legislators the highest-paid in the country. According to data from the Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR), 107 of the State’s 147 MLAs are already millionaires, including 52 from the BJP, 43 from the BJD, nine from the Congress, one from the Left, and two Independents. This has intensified public outrage, with many questioning the rationale behind awarding substantial pay hikes to already wealthy lawmakers.

Vox Pop: 'MLAs should be evaluated on measurable parameters'

Citizens are demanding greater accountability from their elected representatives. They argue that if ministers can be assessed based on their performance, MLAs should also be evaluated on measurable parameters-such as the number of questions raised in the Assembly, effective utilisation of MLA LAD funds, and overall participation in legislative work. Many believe that salary increments should not be unconditional but linked to quantifiable performance metrics, irrespective of party affiliation.

"There should be some qualification for an MLA. We are working so hard. However, the government is not able to conduct our examinations properly. We have given them power. But they seem more concerned about increasing their own salaries," said a resident in Cuttack.

"Students are working very hard to improve their lives and set their career goals. If things can happen so easily by becoming an MLA, then all the students will wish to become MLAs rather than working hard," said a resident of Rourkela.

MLAs, however, defended the hike, stating that rising public expectations and increasing constituency-related expenditures make higher salaries necessary. Some argue that leaders are judged by how much they spend on people. 

Also Read: ‘Extortion of exchequer:’ Sharp rise in MLA salary in Odisha sparks public outcry

"If a leader cannot provide financial assistance, people no longer consider them effective. That has become the prevailing mindset. We are expected to attend various functions, and to manage the organisation and stay connected with people, financial resources are essential. In this context, the step taken by the Chief Minister is truly welcome," said Cooperation Minister Pradeep Bal Samanta.

"Whatever an MLA receives, a major portion of it is spent on the people and the constituency. MLAs do not take all the money home as many assume. So why should we be asked to present a report card? We are working for the people and are fully dedicated to their welfare," said BJD MLA Sarada Jena.

"It was necessary to address the various issues faced by poor people. The MLAs are doing a lot of work in this regard," said Congress MLA Dasarathi Gamang.