MP MLAs Unite for Salary and Allowance Hike; Proposal Ready, Decision Expected Before November 30

Bhopal: While issues like OBC reservation and reservation in promotions continue to linger in court for years, the wheels seem to turn swiftly when it comes to lawmakers’ own benefits. In a significant development, the Madhya Pradesh government is moving ahead with a proposal to increase the salaries, allowances, and pensions of sitting and former MLAs.

A meeting of the committee formed for this purpose was held on Thursday under the chairmanship of Deputy Chief Minister and Finance Minister Jagdish Deora. The committee has completed the draft proposal, which is likely to be approved in its next meeting.

Proposal for Salary and Allowance Hike Finalized

According to officials, the committee has prepared a detailed proposal that covers salary revision, allowances, and pension benefits for current and former legislators. The committee reviewed the remuneration structures of Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Chhattisgarh before finalizing the recommendations for Madhya Pradesh.

Decision Likely Before the Winter Session

Sources indicate that the revised salary and allowances may be approved before November 30, potentially coming into effect during the upcoming Winter Session of the state assembly. The meeting was attended by MLAs Ajay Vishnoi and Sachin Subhashchandra Yadav, along with senior administrative officers including Additional Chief Secretary Anupam Rajan, Additional Chief Secretary (Finance) Manish Rastogi, Assembly Principal Secretary Arvind Sharma, and Additional Secretary Virendra Kumar.

Detailed Review of Other States’ Models

During the discussion, the committee examined the existing structures in Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Chhattisgarh, focusing on the pay, allowances, and pension amounts provided to serving and retired legislators. The first round of deliberations on amending the current system in Madhya Pradesh has been completed.

Final Decision in the Next Meeting

The committee concluded that a final decision on the enhanced facilities for current and former MLAs in Madhya Pradesh will be taken in its next meeting.