Shimla: Despite the ongoing economic crisis in Himachal Pradesh, the state government is learnt to be planning to increase the salaries and allowances of its MLAs.
On the final day of the ongoing budget session of the Himachal Pradesh Assembly, the government is set to introduce an amendment bill that, if passed, will lead to a hike in the salaries of the state’s lawmakers.
Amendment bill to be introduced on final day of budget session
The state government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, plans to present an amendment to the Himachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly Act of 1971.
If the amendment is approved, it will mark a significant rise in the monthly salaries of legislators. The last such increase was made in 2016 during the tenure of the Congress government led by Virbhadra Singh.
Current salary structure of legislators
At present, the basic salary of an MLA in Himachal Pradesh stands at Rs 55,000 per month. In addition to the basic salary, legislators also receive various allowances, which together amount to a monthly salary of Rs 2,10,000.
These allowances include Rs 5,000 as a compensatory allowance, Rs 90,000 for constituency allowance, Rs 15,000 for telephone allowance, Rs 30,000 for office allowance and Rs 15,000 for data operator allowance.
Furthermore, MLAs receive a daily allowance of Rs 1,800 for attending assembly meetings, with a total of 15 meetings held during the current session, adding an additional Rs 27,000 to their monthly salary. They also enjoy a range of benefits, including a travelling allowance, free travel facilities, and residential accommodations.
Increase in salaries of MPs by Modi government
The move by the Himachal Pradesh government comes shortly after a similar decision by the central government.
Just a few days ago, the Modi government announced an increase in the salary and allowances of MPs. Effective from April 1, 2023, the new salary for MPs will be Rs 1,24,000 per month, a 24% increase from their previous salary of Rs 1,00,000.
Sunil Chadha
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