Bhubaneswar, March 26: In response to strong public backlash, the Odisha government on Thursday announced the withdrawal of four bills that proposed a steep increase in the salaries, allowances, and pensions of MLAs, ministers, and Speaker and Deputy Speaker.The proposed changes, originally passed during the winter session of the Odisha Assembly on December 9, 2025, had raised legislators’ monthly pay more than threefold—from ₹1.11 lakh to ₹3.45 lakh—making it one of the highest salary structures for lawmakers in the country. Similar hikes were approved for the Chief Minister, ministers, Speaker, Deputy Speaker, Leader of the Opposition, and former MLAs’ pensions.The four bills—the Odisha Legislative Assembly Members’ Salary, Allowances and Pension (Amendment) Bill 2025, the Speaker’s Salary and Allowances (Amendment) Bill 2025, the Deputy Speaker’s Salary and Allowances (Amendment) Bill 2025, and the Ministers’ Salary and Allowances (Amendment) Bill 2025—received unanimous support from members across party lines.In addition to salary revisions, the proposals included a provision for ₹25 lakh financial assistance to the family of a sitting MLA in the event of their death, as well as a mechanism to revise salaries, allowances, and pensions every five years.However, the move triggered widespread criticism from civil society groups, social organizations, and the general public. Many viewed the decision as insensitive, citing ongoing challenges such as unemployment, inflation, and economic distress in the state.Currently, an MLA in the Odisha Assembly receives a monthly package of around ₹1.11 lakh, including salary, allowances, and other benefits.
