A Parliamentary panel looking into the issue of salary and allowances of MPs may revisit a number of its recommendations on Monday when it meets in the wake of criticism of its proposals like hundred per cent hike in salary, and constituency and office allowances.
When contacted BJP MP Yogi Adityanath, who heads the Joint Committee on Salaries and Allowances of Members of Parliament, told a news agency that the panel is yet to submit its report and no decision has been taken so far.
"We will meet on Monday," he <g data-gr-id="22">said,</g> when a "final" decision is likely to be taken.
The panel was in favour of a large number of demands of members, including 100 per cent hike in salary, constituency allowance and office allowance of MPs, an approximately 75 <g data-gr-id="32">per cent</g> raise in pension of ex-MPs apart from facilities for their "companions" in place of "spouses".
However, since the issue kicked up a controversy and a number of political parties criticised the move, there has been a re-think and the panel is likely to drop some recommendations. Some of the proposals have also not found favour with the government.
Some panel members are of the view that since the issue has raked up a controversy, the panel should delay a decision in the matter. Rising prices and agrarian problems in various parts also weighed on them.
JD(U) MP K C Tyagi, a member in the panel, said he will request the Chairman to put off the meeting for the time being. "It is not the appropriate time to decide about the salary of MPs. It may send a wrong signal to people that MPs are adamant on increasing their salaries and perks anyhow".
Tyagi said he was in favour of raising the pay and perks of parliamentarians but it should be done by an independent body with MPs not playing any role.