Did the Odisha Assembly Approve a Major Salary Hike for MLAs?
Synopsis
The Odisha Assembly's recent unanimous decision to triple the salaries and allowances of its MLAs has sparked discussions on the financial implications for the state. This significant salary hike, effective from June 2024, includes benefits for former MLAs, enhancing their pensions and allowances as well. What does this mean for governance in Odisha?
Key Takeaways
The Odisha Assembly passed a significant salary hike for MLAs.
MLA salaries have increased from Rs 35,000 to Rs 90,000 monthly.
The hike is retroactive from June 5, 2024.
Former MLAs will receive enhanced pensions and allowances.
The Chief Minister's total remuneration is set at Rs 3.74 lakh monthly.
Bhubaneswar, Dec 9 (NationPress) On Tuesday, the Odisha Assembly reached a unanimous agreement on a significant legislative measure aimed at increasing the salaries and allowances of its members by over three times.
Under the four bills that were passed on Tuesday, the adjustments in salaries and allowances will take effect retroactively from June 5, 2024.
This enhancement will benefit all principal office-bearers, which includes the Chief Minister, Deputy Chief Ministers, ministers, Speaker, Deputy Speaker, Leader of the Opposition, Chief Whip, and Deputy Chief Whips.
In addition, former MLAs will see an increase in their pensions and allowances as part of these new provisions. The legislation stipulates that the monthly basic salary for an MLA will rise from Rs 35,000 to Rs 90,000.
Moreover, members will now receive a sumptuary allowance of Rs 98,000 per month, compared to the previous Rs 40,000.
Other allowances, including those for constituency visits, engagements at Lok Seva Bhawan, transportation, and medical expenses, have also seen considerable increases.
Former MLAs are now entitled to pensions and additional allowances amounting to approximately Rs 1.17 lakh per month.
Specifically, the monthly remuneration for the Chief Minister will total Rs 3.74 lakh, which includes a basic salary of Rs 1 lakh, a sumptuary allowance of Rs 1.83 lakh, and Rs 91,000 for car allowances.
Salaries for other office-bearers will range between Rs 3.50 lakh and Rs 3.68 lakh per month, depending on their respective positions.
The bills were introduced in the Assembly and passed without any opposition on Tuesday. Senior BJD leader and party chief whip Pramila Mallik praised this decision, stating it would assist former MLAs in managing their financial and social needs.
BJP MLA Om Prakash Mishra also supported the decision, describing it as a necessary and overdue adjustment for the state legislature.
Point of View
I believe this substantial increase in salaries and allowances for Odisha's MLAs reflects a critical shift in the state's approach to governance. While the hike addresses the financial needs of lawmakers and former legislators, it also raises questions about fiscal responsibility and public accountability. Balancing the welfare of elected representatives with the expectations of the electorate remains paramount.
NationPress
6 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the new salary for MLAs in Odisha?
The new monthly basic salary for MLAs has been increased from Rs 35,000 to Rs 90,000.
When will the salary hike take effect?
The salary and allowance increase will be effective retroactively from June 5, 2024.
Who else benefits from this salary hike?
The hike benefits all principal office-bearers, including former MLAs who will also see an increase in pensions and allowances.
What is the sumptuary allowance for MLAs now?
The sumptuary allowance for MLAs has increased to Rs 98,000 per month, up from Rs 40,000.
What is the total remuneration for the Chief Minister?
The Chief Minister's total monthly remuneration will amount to Rs 3.74 lakh.
