Odisha BJP MLAs Urge CM to Reconsider Triple Salary Hike Amid Public Backlash
In a move reflecting sensitivity to public sentiment, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) legislators in Odisha have formally requested Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi to reconsider the recent tripling of salaries and allowances for MLAs and former legislators.
The proposal was submitted during a crucial meeting of the BJP legislative party at the state headquarters in Bhubaneswar.
Health and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Dr Mukesh Mahaling announced that the MLAs, acknowledging widespread public criticism, have urged the Chief Minister to review the hike.
The salary revision, passed on December 9, 2025, during the 17th Odisha Legislative Assembly session, increased monthly remuneration from approximately Rs 1.11 lakh to Rs 3.45 lakh, placing Odisha lawmakers among the highest-paid in the country.
The meeting was attended by key leaders, including State President Manmohan Samal, Deputy Chief Minister Pravati Parida, General Secretary (Organisation) Manas Kumar Mohanty, and all cabinet ministers. The bills are currently awaiting the Governor’s assent.
Public debate has intensified on social media and in civic forums, with many questioning the timing of the hike amid economic challenges faced by ordinary citizens.
The Chief Minister’s response to the reconsideration request is now awaited, marking a pivotal moment in Odisha’s political discourse.
