Karnataka govt considering hike in salaries of legislators: Minister H K Patil

Bengaluru: The Karnataka government is considering hiking the salaries of legislators, Law & Parliamentary Affairs Minister H K Patil said on Tuesday, adding that the quantum was not decided as yet.

The last salary hike for Karnataka lawmakers was in 2022. They gave themselves a 60 per cent raise — from Rs 25,000 to Rs 40,000 per month. They also get Rs 60,000 every month as constituency travelling allowance.

The proposal to hike salaries of lawmakers once again was discussed during the Business Advisory Committee's (BAC) meeting on Monday.

"It came up in the meeting. There were opinions expressed. The government will consider suggestions that were made during the meeting. We may introduce some legislation during this session," Patil said, referring to the ongoing budget session of the legislature.

When asked if salaries will be revised by 50 per cent, Patil said this was undecided. "We'll introduce legislature regarding the revision of salaries because it's been a long time," he said.

Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy pointed out that some MLAs had sought a salary hike due to a rise in travel expenses. "They have to travel within their constituencies and expenses are high," he said.

He also said that he donates his salary to government schools. Asked why rich lawmakers cannot renounce a hike, the minister said, "Not all MLAs are rich."

There are also discussions to provide Rs 20 crore for a Constitution Club catering to lawmakers. "This subject came up...that no facilities are provided there for MLAs. The Speaker also brought it up with the chief minister, who said it would be considered," Patil said.

During the winter session of the legislature in December 2024, Deputy Leader of the Opposition Arvind Bellad asked the government to set up a pay commission to "analyse and review" salaries and allowances of lawmakers.

At present, salaries and allowances drawn by lawmakers — MLAs and MLCs — are decided by themselves under the Karnataka Legislature Salaries, Pensions and Allowances Act.