Odisha Government Initiates Withdrawal of Controversial MLA Salary Hike Bills
The state government of Odisha has officially begun the process to withdraw four legislative bills that proposed a significant three-fold increase in the salaries and allowances of Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs). This move comes after the bills, passed in December, sparked widespread criticism and public outrage for their timing amid economic challenges faced by ordinary citizens.
Formal Notice for Withdrawal Submitted
Assembly secretary Satyabrata Rout has informed MLAs that parliamentary affairs minister Mukesh Mahaling has formally moved a notice seeking the withdrawal of the bills. The bills in question include:
- The Odisha Legislative Assembly Members' Salary, Allowances and Pension (Amendment) Bill, 2025
- The Odisha Legislative Assembly Speaker’s Salary and Allowances (Amendment) Bill, 2025
- The Odisha Legislative Assembly Deputy Speaker's Salary and Allowances (Amendment) Bill, 2025
- The Odisha Ministers’ Salaries and Allowances (Amendment) Bill, 2025
These bills were passed in the assembly on December 9 in just a few minutes without any discussion, leading to immediate backlash from the public and political opponents.
Political Pressure and Public Outcry
Following the passage of the bills, BJP MLAs were the first to meet Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, demanding a rollback of the steep hike. They labeled the move as 'inopportune' given the financial stress experienced by ordinary citizens. Soon after, BJD MLAs also publicly urged the chief minister to reconsider the decision, adding to the growing criticism from various quarters.
In response to the development, the government did not send the bills for assent to Governor Hari Babu Kambhampati. If implemented, the proposed hike would have made Odisha MLAs the highest-paid in the country, with a monthly remuneration increasing from Rs 1 lakh to Rs 3.45 lakh.
Implications and Broader Context
The withdrawal process highlights the sensitivity of salary hikes for public representatives during times of economic hardship. It underscores the importance of transparency and public consultation in legislative matters, especially those involving taxpayer funds. The incident has drawn attention to the need for balanced governance that prioritizes citizen welfare over political perks.
This development in Odisha's political landscape serves as a reminder of the power of public opinion and opposition pressure in shaping government decisions. It also reflects ongoing debates about appropriate compensation for elected officials across India.
