The Karnataka government has officially approved a 100% salary increase for the Chief Minister, state ministers, and Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs). This decision, which has sparked considerable discussion, comes as part of two amendment bills that seek to revise the salaries and allowances of legislators in the state.

The approved bills—The Karnataka Ministers' Salaries and Allowances (Amendment) Bill 2025 and The Karnataka Legislature Members' Salaries, Pensions, and Allowances (Amendment) Bill 2025—are expected to be introduced in the state assembly on Thursday.

Ministers Justify the Salary Hike

Defending the decision, Home Minister G. Parameshwara cited rising expenditures as a key reason behind the pay raise. He emphasised that legislators, like the general public, are also struggling with increasing costs.

"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 the CM will manage to give this money from some account," he explained.

State Minister M.B. Patil also supported the move, stating that an independent committee had recommended the hike. He argued that well-compensated lawmakers are less susceptible to corruption and that similar practices exist in other countries.

"There is nothing wrong with 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 of the PM, Ministers, and MPs—they are among the highest paid in the world... that makes them very independent, not corrupt. We cannot compare our salaries to Singapore, but still, a decent pay should be given," said Patil.

Dissenting Voices and Concerns Over the Raise

While some ministers support the decision, others have expressed reservations. Congress legislator Dr. Ranganath stated that he personally did not expect a salary increase. However, he acknowledged that some MLAs require a basic salary to manage their responsibilities. He suggested that a more modest 10-20% raise would be sufficient.

"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," he said.

Public and Political Reactions

The decision has sparked a larger conversation about the financial priorities of the government. Critics question whether such a significant raise is necessary, especially when the state faces multiple economic challenges. Many believe that the government should focus on addressing public welfare and essential services before approving such substantial salary increases for legislators.

The debate is expected to intensify as the bills move forward in the legislative process. While the government argues that the hike is necessary to sustain lawmakers and their responsibilities, dissenting voices continue to challenge its timing and necessity.