Himachal Pradesh Assembly Approves Salary Hike, Cuts Key Allowances

The Himachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly has passed amendment bills increasing salaries of ministers and MLAs while scrapping key allowances. Despite increased responsibilities, the removal of electricity, water, and telephone allowances means representatives may incur additional personal expenses. The decision has received mixed reactions amid the state's economic challenges.

The Himachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly approved a series of amendment bills on Friday, paving the way for increased salaries for ministers, MLAs, the Speaker, and the Deputy Speaker. However, the salary hikes come with significant trade-offs, as essential allowances for electricity, water, and telephone have been removed.

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu presented these amendments during the Budget Session, emphasizing their necessity in response to inflation and the growing responsibilities of public officials. The legislations include the Ministers' Salaries and Allowances (Himachal Pradesh) Amendment Bill, 2025, impacting the financial compensation for these state representatives.

Despite salaries increasing by approximately Rs 25,000 to Rs 30,000 per month, the government has abolished a Rs 20,000 Telephone Allowance, among others. This adjustment means MLAs might have to bear these costs themselves, sparking debate on the timing and implications of such changes amid the state's financial concerns.

(With inputs from agencies.)