Months after taking office, J&K MLAs receive first salary; but they aren't happy

Months after the legislators of Jammu and Kashmir took office, they received their first salary—an amount that includes a basic pay of Rs 80,000 and equivalent allowances. However, this payment, disbursed after significant delays, follows the previous pay scale, leaving legislators disappointed.

The disbursement highlights ongoing challenges in establishing a robust framework for lawmakers' salaries and development funds, crucial for addressing public concerns.

The reorganisation of Jammu and Kashmir in 2019 brought significant administrative changes, including the bifurcation into two Union Territories. Since then, the authority to define the salaries and allowances of MLAs has rested with the Lieutenant Governor until the Legislative Assembly enacts relevant legislation.

Despite efforts to propose higher salaries and benefits, the recommendations submitted by the cabinet have not been acted upon. 

Legislators have expressed concerns over the absence of clarity in their financial entitlements, which affects their ability to operate effectively.

A pressing issue for legislators remains the delayed release of the Constituency Development Fund (CDF), which is essential for implementing community-based projects. 

The CDF enables legislators to address pressing needs, such as infrastructure development, healthcare and education, within their constituencies.

While funds totalling Rs 2.80 crore per legislator have been allocated for the financial year, they will only be released by April 2025. This delay has stalled crucial projects, leaving representatives unable to address local developmental challenges.

The combination of delayed salaries and withheld development funds has raised concerns about governance and the effectiveness of the newly elected legislature. Legislators argue that without timely access to these resources, they are unable to fulfil their promises to voters or address the urgent needs of their constituencies.

As Jammu and Kashmir transition into a new administrative era, lawmakers have called for urgent measures to streamline financial processes and empower representatives to serve their constituencies effectively.

A BJP  MLA told THE WEEK that one month’s salary of MLAs has been released.” I have not checked my account details, but one month’s salary has been released,’’ he said. About the constituency development funds, he said it has not been released thus far.