BY TC News Desk
Agartala, 15th January 2025 : On the concluding day of its three-day session, the Tripura Legislative Assembly approved a bill to significantly increase the salaries, allowances, and pensions of the Chief Minister, Ministers, and MLAs. The legislation, introduced by Parliamentary Affairs Minister Ratan Lal Nath, marks the first major revision in six years.
Under the updated pay structure, the Chief Minister’s monthly salary will rise to ₹97,000, with an additional sumptuary allowance of ₹13,000. Ministers and the Leader of the Opposition will now receive ₹95,000 in salary and an allowance of ₹12,000, while MLAs will draw ₹93,000 per month, supplemented by the same allowance.
During the debate, Leader of the Opposition Jitendra Chaudhury acknowledged the necessity of periodic salary revisions but questioned the scale of the hike. “While I agree that adjustments are warranted, doubling salaries may appear excessive to the public. I also urge the government to consider the needs of the families of the ten deceased ex-MLAs, either now or during the next budget session,” Chaudhury said.
Congress MLA Sudip Roy Barman flagged concerns regarding the misuse of medical reimbursements by lawmakers. He called for stricter caps on claims to prevent exploitation.
“Some lawmakers have reportedly claimed up to ₹30,000 monthly in medical reimbursements by unduly influencing doctors. Genuine cases must be supported, but there should be safeguards against misuse. A cap should be introduced, with exceptions for referrals or hospitalization,” Barman suggested. He also recommended giving MLAs the option to voluntarily surrender their salaries and allowances as a gesture of accountability.
Defending the bill, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Ratan Lal Nath noted that the revision reflects the need to address financial concerns of lawmakers while considering inflation and rising costs.
“This is the first salary adjustment in six years. Since 1963, 751 MLAs have served in Tripura, and currently, 82 families of ex-MLAs receive family pensions, which we have increased from ₹25,000 to ₹48,000,” Nath stated.
