Dehradun, September 2024: The Uttarakhand government, under Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, has showered its MLAs with a generous gift just before the festival of Diwali. In what is being seen as a major financial boost, the state government has approved several perks for Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs), sparking mixed reactions across the political spectrum.
Key Perks Announced
The Dhami administration has increased allowances, salary perks, and other financial benefits for the MLAs. According to sources, this includes:
- Hike in Monthly Salary: The monthly salary for MLAs has been increased significantly, with some reports suggesting a rise of up to 25% in the overall package.
- Enhanced Travel and Housing Allowances: MLAs will now receive higher travel allowances and a bump in housing expenses, helping them manage their official duties more comfortably.
- Pension Scheme Upgrades: For former legislators, pension benefits have also seen a revision, making their post-retirement life more financially secure.
- Constituency Development Fund (CDF) Increment: The government has decided to increase the allocation under the Constituency Development Fund, allowing MLAs to push forward development projects in their respective constituencies.
Opposition’s Reaction
While the ruling party members have welcomed the move, the opposition has criticized the decision, questioning the timing of the announcement. Critics argue that the government should focus on addressing pressing issues such as unemployment, infrastructure development, and environmental concerns rather than providing financial benefits to MLAs.
The leader of the opposition, Yashpal Arya, commented, “It is unfortunate that while the state is grappling with natural disasters and economic challenges, the government has chosen to prioritize the comfort of MLAs. This move seems more like a Diwali gift to politicians than a step toward real development.”
Impact on Public Perception
The public’s response has been mixed. While some citizens feel that MLAs, who work tirelessly for the state’s development, deserve these benefits, others believe the government should have focused on improving public services.
Many citizens have taken to social media platforms to express their opinions. “At a time when the state is struggling to rebuild after floods, this seems like an unnecessary expense,” wrote one user on Twitter.
Government’s Defense
In defense of the decision, the Dhami government has highlighted the need to empower legislators to perform their duties effectively. “Our MLAs play a crucial role in the development of the state. By ensuring they have the financial resources to manage their constituencies, we are strengthening the overall governance structure,” said a government spokesperson.
Moreover, some experts argue that by increasing the Constituency Development Fund, the government is providing MLAs with the tools necessary to carry out important projects in their regions, which could ultimately benefit the public.
Political Significance
This pre-Diwali gesture from the Dhami government has wider political implications as well. With state elections around the corner, the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) is likely aiming to secure the loyalty of its legislators and ensure smooth governance in the coming months.
Political analysts suggest that this move may help the government gain favor with MLAs and their constituencies, but it could also backfire if the public perceives it as prioritizing political class benefits over grassroots issues.
