Is Former VP Dhankhar Set to Receive Pension as Ex-MLA?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Jagdeep Dhankhar receives Rs 42,000 as monthly pension.
- Pension reinstated after resignation from Vice Presidency.
- Former MLAs receive Rs 35,000 as basic pension.
- Additional 20% for those over 70 years of age.
- Facilities are available for former legislators.
Jaipur, Sep 5 (NationPress) Jagdeep Dhankhar, the former Vice President, has been granted pension benefits as a former MLA by the Rajasthan Legislative Assembly.
After his application submitted in late August, the Assembly Secretariat finalized the procedures, initiating his pension from the date his resignation as Vice President was formally accepted.
This decision allows Dhankhar to resume receiving a monthly pension along with the associated benefits granted to former legislators.
He will be entitled to a pension of approximately Rs 42,000 per month. The basic pension for a one-term MLA stands at Rs 35,000, but due to his age exceeding 75 years, he qualifies for an additional 20 percent, elevating the total to Rs 42,000.
Dhankhar was elected as a Congress MLA from the Kishangarh constituency, serving in the Rajasthan Legislative Assembly from 1993 to 1998.
His MLA pension was halted in July 2019 when he took on the role of Governor of West Bengal.
Following his resignation from the Vice President position earlier this year, his pension has been reinstated in accordance with the established procedures.
As per regulations, the pension for a former MLA commences after their legislative term concludes but is suspended if the individual accepts a salaried or constitutional role such as a minister, governor, or vice president.
The Vidhan Sabha Secretariat must be notified of such appointments, leading to the suspension of pension payments. Upon the conclusion of such roles, the individual can reapply using the specified format for the resumption of benefits.
Dhankhar adhered to this protocol, resulting in the restoration of his pension. According to Assembly regulations, a former MLA is eligible for a monthly pension of Rs 35,000. For each additional term served beyond five years, Rs 1,600 is added monthly.
Consequently, a two-time MLA receives Rs 42,000, while a three-time MLA earns around Rs 50,000. Additionally, individuals over 70 years of age receive a 20 percent increase.
In addition to the pension, former MLAs are eligible for various facilities as stipulated by Assembly regulations. With this approval, Jagdeep Dhankhar, who has served as an MLA and ascended to some of the highest constitutional roles in the country, resumes his rights as a former legislator of Rajasthan.