Should Odisha Chief Minister Reconsider Salary Hike for MLAs?
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Synopsis
In a surprising turn of events, the Biju Janata Dal (BJD) has called on Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi to rethink the recent salary hike for MLAs and ministers. This request comes on the heels of similar appeals from BJP legislators, showcasing a growing tension in Odisha's political landscape. Will the CM heed this call?
Key Takeaways
- BJD has called for a reconsideration of the salary hike.
- The request follows a similar appeal from BJP legislators.
- Public opinion is a significant factor in political decision-making.
- Naveen Patnaik has chosen to forgo his increased salary.
- The recent legislation has drawn widespread criticism.
Bhubaneswar, Dec 19 (NationPress) The leading opposition party, Biju Janata Dal (BJD), formally urged Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi to reevaluate the recent increase in salaries and allowances for MLAs, ministers, the Chief Minister, and the Speaker, just a day after a similar request was made by BJP legislators.
During a press briefing at the party headquarters on Friday, Pramila Mallik, the chief whip of BJD in the Odisha Assembly, stated, “While we supported the legislation concerning the rise in salaries and pensions of MLAs and former MLAs that was passed on December 9, following the guidance of our beloved leader and former Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik, we, representing the BJD, request the Chief Minister to reconsider this legislation and heed public sentiment.”
She further noted that the BJD president, who has always valued public opinion, has never accepted a salary since entering politics. Mallik expressed hope that the state government would take necessary actions in line with public sentiment.
BJD leader Naveen Patnaik had previously declared that he would forgo the recently augmented salary and allowances linked to the Leader of Opposition's position, recommending that the funds be redirected for the benefit of the underprivileged.
Notably, the Odisha Assembly recently approved four Bills without any dissent, substantially raising the salaries and allowances for MLAs, as well as those for the Speaker, Deputy Speaker, ministers, Leader of the Opposition, and the Chief Minister. With these adjustments, Odisha's MLAs have become some of the highest-paid legislators in the nation. This decision has ignited a significant debate throughout the state, attracting criticism across various societal sectors.
In response to widespread public discontent and reported dissatisfaction from central leaders, the ruling BJP felt compelled to reassess the decision.
On Thursday, after a private meeting involving BJP MLAs and ministers, attended by CM Majhi and BJP state president Manmohan Samal at the party's state headquarters, all party legislators unanimously passed a resolution calling on CM Majhi to reconsider the legislation approved during the last Assembly session that raised salaries and pensions for both current and former legislators.
Point of View
The latest call from the BJD for Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi to reconsider the recent salary hike for MLAs reflects a growing concern for public sentiment. This situation illustrates the delicate balance politicians must maintain between legislative decisions and the voices of their constituents. As the Nation editorial team, we remain committed to providing unbiased coverage of these developments.
NationPress
20/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the BJD to request a salary rollback?
The BJD's request for a salary rollback came after public backlash against the recent increase in salaries and allowances for MLAs and ministers.
Who is the current Chief Minister of Odisha?
The current Chief Minister of Odisha is Mohan Charan Majhi.
What was the response from BJP MLAs regarding the salary hike?
BJP MLAs also urged CM Majhi to reconsider the salary hike, indicating a consensus on the issue among opposition parties.
How did Naveen Patnaik respond to the salary increase?
Naveen Patnaik announced that he would not accept the increased salary and would prefer the funds be directed towards the welfare of the poor.
What impact did the salary hike have on Odisha's MLAs?
With the salary hike, Odisha's MLAs became some of the highest-paid legislators in the country, sparking significant debate and criticism.
