In an important announcement, the government has increased the salaries, allowances, and pensions of Members of Parliament (MPs). The decision was passed during the last parliamentary session so as to match the remuneration of MPs with the cost of living. The core of the debate on this hike has therefore seen mixed views from the public and political circles.
Details Of The Salary Increment
The basic pay of the MPs will go up extremely well in the salary increment. The new salary structure is: Basic salary: MPs’ basic pay shall henceforth be increased by 20%. Constituency allowance: Substantially Increased for expenses incurred while attending to constituents. Office Expenses Allowance: Enhanced office expenses to cover administrative and staff-related costs.
Pension Benefits
Retired MPs will have their privileges increased alongside the salary increase. Pensions were increased by 15% in the interest of the former members’ financial safety. Family pension provisions were also enhanced so that dependents of deceased members would receive more support.
Justification For The Hike
In justification of the hike, the government noted the need for adjusting salaries and allowances of MPs according to inflation. It stated that MPs faced significant costs while representing their constituencies and that these allowances would be useful in offsetting some of these costs. The ability to pay competitive remuneration was seen as a means to attract able-bodied men and women to serve in an area of public office. For this reason,
Public And Political Reactions
While MPs were divided on the decision with some expressing their approval while others attacked its timing with the suffering that ordinary citizens have in the economy, different civil societies have expressed great concern on why MPs should even be having salary increases when citizens face inflation and unemployment.
Conclusion
The government decision on the increase of MPs’ salaries, allowances, and pensions has been a subject of discussion everywhere in the country. While the proponents argue the same is geared to enhanced representation and governance, the opponents have questioned the morality of the decision taken amidst economic hardship. Whether or not this will shape public opinion and future policies, we wait to see.
Keep tuned for updates as the revised salary structure will take effect in the next financial year.
Also Read: Good News For Govt Employees: Minimum Pay Raised To Rs 46,000 Under 8th Pay Commission