Bengaluru: The Karnataka government has approved a 100% salary increase for the Chief Minister, Ministers, and Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs), leading to intense discussions. The approval pertains to two amendment bills: the Karnataka Ministers' Salaries and Allowances (Amendment) Bill 2025 and the Karnataka Legislature Members' Salaries, Pensions, and Allowances (Amendment) Bill 2025.

Sources suggest that the bills will likely be presented in the Assembly on Thursday.

Home Minister G. Parameshwara defended the salary hike, attributing it to rising living costs and the financial pressures faced by lawmakers. "The justification is that their expenses are rising, just like everyone else’s. A common man is also struggling, and so are MLAs. Recommendations came from MLAs and others, which is why the Chief Minister decided to approve it. Everyone has to survive, and the CM will find a way to manage this money from some account," Parameshwara said.

State Minister M.B. Patil also backed the proposal, stating that raising the salaries and allowances of lawmakers is acceptable if determined by an independent committee. He argued that such a move ensures independence and reduces corruption, pointing out that even the Prime Minister, Ministers, and Members of Parliament (MPs) in India are among the highest-paid in the world. "There's nothing wrong with raising the salary and perks of MLAs. If it’s decided by a committee, that’s fine. Look at the PM, Ministers, and MPs – they are among the highest-paid globally, which helps them remain independent and less corrupt. While we can't compare ourselves to Singapore, we still deserve a decent salary," Patil said.

However, not all legislators agree with the increase. Congress MLA Dr. Ranganath expressed uncertainty over the matter and stated that he did not expect a personal salary increase. He acknowledged that some MLAs might require a modest salary to manage their expenses but suggested a more modest hike of 10-20%. "I am not very sure about this issue. As a doctor and MLA, I am not expecting the hike personally, but many MLAs do need a basic salary. If they do offer a hike, it should be no more than 10 or 20 percent," said Ranganath.