Odisha High Court Faces PIL Against MLA Salary Hike
Cuttack: The recent decision to increase the salaries and allowances of Odisha’s Members of Legislative Assembly (MLAs) has sparked widespread debate and public discontent.
A Public Interest Litigation (PIL) has been filed in the Odisha High Court challenging the move, arguing that the hike is anti-people and unjustified.
The revision, passed through three separate bills in the Assembly on December 9, 2024, raised MLA pay by more than 2.5 times.
With the new structure, the basic salary has jumped from Rs 35,000 to Rs 90,000 per month, while total monthly remuneration, including allowances, now stands at approximately Rs 3.45 lakh. Pension benefits for former MLAs have also been increased.
The hike, effective from June 2024, will cost the state exchequer over Rs 5 crore every month. Odisha now ranks first among Indian states in terms of MLA compensation.
The bills also stipulate that future hikes will occur automatically every five years without requiring fresh legislation.
Public reaction has been sharp, with many citizens expressing dissatisfaction. Some MLAs have even announced they will not accept the increased salary.
Political parties and intellectuals have urged a review of the decision, citing the need to respect public sentiment and fiscal responsibility.
The PIL, filed by advocate Kavita Patra, calls for the withdrawal of the hike, labelling it excessive and lacking justification.
The High Court is expected to hear the matter soon, making this a significant test of governance and accountability in Odisha.
