The Odisha government has withdrawn four bills that proposed a three-fold increase in salaries, allowances, and pensions of MLAs, ministers, and top Assembly officials.
The bills, passed in December 2025, would have made Odisha MLAs among the highest-paid in the country, with monthly salaries of Rs 3.45 lakh, Rs 3.74 lakh for the Chief Minister, and Rs 3.60 lakh for cabinet ministers.
The move comes after widespread criticism from civil society, social outfits, and citizens, who deemed the hike insensitive amid economic hardships and unemployment.
Opposition leader Naveen Patnaik advised against taking the increased salary, suggesting it be spent on welfare measures for the poor. The government has decided to withdraw the bills, respecting public opinion.