Cash-strapped Karnataka okays 100% salary hike for CM, ministers and MLAs; home minister cites 'need for lawmakers to survive'

BENGALURU: The Karnataka government has approved a 100% salary hike for the chief minister, ministers, and MLAs, prompting vigorous discourse amongst the populace.

The authorisation encompasses two legislative amendments: the Karnataka ministers' Salaries and Allowances (Amendment) Bill 2025 and the Karnataka Legislature Members' Salaries, Pensions, and Allowances (Amendment) Bill 2025, which shall substantially augment the remuneration structure for the state's highest-ranking officials.

Initial reports suggest the proposed legislation will be introduced in the Assembly on Thursday.

Home minister G Parameshwara defended the increase, stating it was necessary due to increasing costs and to ensure legislators can maintain their livelihood.

"The justification is that their expenditure is also going up along with other people. A common man is also suffering, and MLAs are also suffering. So, recommendations have come from MLAs and others, and that is why the chief minister has taken the decision. Everybody has to survive and CM will manage to give this money from some account," Parameshwara said.

State minister MB Patil supported the recommendation, suggesting that salary and allowance increases for legislators are reasonable when determined by an autonomous panel. He noted that the Prime Minister, ministers, and MPs receive amongst the highest compensation globally, which he believes promotes independence and reduces corruption.

"There is nothing wrong in the salary and perks of MLAs being raised, it is not fair if we do it ourselves; that's why a committee is there which is recommended. You take the example, the PM, ministers and MPs are highest paid in the world...that makes them very independent not corrupt. We cannot compare our salaries to Singapore but still decent pay should be given," said MB Patil.

Nevertheless, there is dissent. Congress MLA Dr Ranganath expressed doubts about the proposal and stated he was not anticipating a personal salary increase. Whilst acknowledging some legislators need a basic income to cover expenses, he recommended a more conservative increase of 10-20%.

" I am not very sure about this issue. I am a doctor and MLA. I am not expecting that hike personally, but there are many MLAs who need a basic salary. If they give a hike, it won't be more than 10 or 20 per cent," said Ranganath.

The suggested increase has generated discussions, with opponents raising concerns about the timing of such a rise, particularly given the state's current fiscal difficulties and 'challenges'.