Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has proposed a 100% salary hike for himself, his Cabinet ministers, and MLAs, citing increasing expenses and the need for lawmakers to “survive.” The proposal is part of the Karnataka Ministers’ Salaries and Allowances (Amendment) Bill 2025 and the Karnataka Legislature Members’ Salaries, Pensions, and Allowances (Amendment) Bill 2025, which are expected to be tabled in the Assembly soon.
Justifications for the 100% Salary Hike
Defending the proposal, Home Minister G Parameshwara stated that MLAs are facing financial struggles due to rising expenses, just like common citizens.
“A common man is also suffering, and MLAs are also suffering. Their expenditure is increasing along with others. Recommendations have come from MLAs, and that is why the Chief Minister has taken this decision. Everybody has to survive, and the CM will manage to provide the funds from some account,” said Parameshwara.
Minister MB Patil also supported the pay hike, arguing that well-paid lawmakers are more independent and less prone to corruption.
“There is nothing wrong with increasing MLAs’ salaries if an independent committee recommends it. Even the Prime Minister, Ministers, and MPs in India are among the highest-paid in the world. This financial independence ensures they remain less corrupt. While we cannot compare our salaries to countries like Singapore, a decent pay should be provided,” he said.
Opposition and Alternative Suggestions
However, not all legislators agree with the proposal. Congress legislator Dr. Ranganath suggested that a more modest increase of 10-20% would be reasonable instead of a 100% hike.
“I am not very sure about this issue. As a doctor and an MLA, I personally don’t expect a salary hike. However, there are MLAs who need a basic salary to cover expenses. If a hike is given, it should be limited to 10-20%,” he said.
The proposal has sparked a heated debate, with many questioning whether public funds should be used to double the salaries of lawmakers while citizens continue to face economic challenges. The final decision on the salary hike will depend on discussions in the Karnataka Assembly.
