Karnataka Government to Table Salary Hike Bills for CM, Ministers, and MLAs Tomorrow

Bengaluru, March 20, 2025 – The Karnataka government has approved a 100% salary hike for the Chief Minister, Ministers, and MLAs, triggering a heated debate. The hike comes through the Karnataka Ministers’ Salaries and Allowances (Amendment) Bill 2025 and the Karnataka Legislature Members’ Salaries, Pensions, and Allowances (Amendment) Bill 2025, which are likely to be tabled in the Assembly tomorrow.

Home Minister G Parameshwara defended the hike, citing rising expenditures and the need for lawmakers to survive. He argued that MLAs face increasing costs like ordinary citizens and need financial support to manage their responsibilities effectively.

State Minister MB Patil supported the proposal, highlighting that well-compensated lawmakers are more independent and less prone to corruption. He pointed out that similar pay structures exist for the Prime Minister, Ministers, and MPs, making them financially secure.

However, Congress legislator Dr. Ranganath voiced skepticism, suggesting that a modest increase of 10-20% would be more reasonable. He acknowledged that some MLAs require a basic salary but questioned the scale of the proposed hike.

The proposal has sparked criticism, with opponents questioning the necessity of such a significant raise while the state grapples with financial challenges. The government maintains that the hike is essential to ensure lawmakers can effectively serve their constituents without financial strain.