Punjab Assembly Approves 426% Salary Hike for MPAs

In a landmark decision, the Punjab Assembly has approved a staggering 426% increase in the salaries of Members of the Provincial Assembly (MPAs) and other key officials. The move, passed during the 19th session chaired by Speaker Malik Muhammad Ahmed Khan, sparked discussions and varying reactions across the political landscape.

Details of the Salary Hike

The bill, presented by Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Mujtaba Shujaur Rehman, received a majority vote despite minor objections raised by Opposition Leader Malik Ahmad Khan Bhachar.

The approved increments include:

• MPAs: Monthly salaries increased from Rs76,000 to Rs400,000 (426% hike).
• Provincial Ministers: Salaries surged by 860%, rising from Rs100,000 to Rs960,000.
• Speaker of the Assembly: Pay increased from Rs125,000 to Rs950,000.
• Deputy Speaker: Salary rose from Rs120,000 to Rs775,000.
• Parliamentary Secretaries: Pay enhanced from Rs83,000 to Rs451,000.
• Special Assistants: Increment from Rs100,000 to Rs665,000.
• Advisors: Salaries increased from Rs100,000 to Rs665,000.

Opposition and Public Reaction

While the bill was passed smoothly within the assembly, the decision has sparked widespread debate. Critics argue that such significant salary hikes may not align with the economic conditions of the province. Proponents, however, claim that the increment was long overdue and reflects the responsibilities shouldered by public officials.

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Recent Fiscal Developments in Punjab

This decision follows the Punjab Assembly’s approval of a Rs5.4 trillion budget for the Fiscal Year 2024-25 earlier this year. The budget introduced new taxation measures and adjustments aimed at modernizing the province’s financial framework.

Key features of the Finance Bill include:

• Commercial Properties: Tax of 0.07% on total value.
• Property Taxation: Properties valued between Rs10 million and Rs25 million to be taxed at 0.08%, while properties over Rs25 million face a 0.09% tax.
• Vehicle Registration Fees:
  • Motorcycles and Scooters: Rs1,500 registration fee, with an additional 10% transfer fee within 10 years.
  • Vehicles up to 1000cc: Rs20,000 registration fee, plus a 10% annual transfer fee.
  • Vehicles between 1000cc and 2000cc: Taxed at 0.02% of the purchase price.
  • Vehicles over 2000cc: Taxed at 0.03% of the purchase price.

Implications of the Decision

The salary hike reflects the Punjab Assembly’s efforts to align compensation packages with the demands of governance. However, it has raised questions about resource allocation and prioritization, especially in light of public concerns over economic challenges.

Conclusion

The Punjab Assembly’s decision marks a significant shift in the compensation structure for provincial officials. While it has been justified as necessary to meet the evolving demands of governance, its timing and scale remain points of contention.

Stay tuned for further updates and insights on how this development will impact the province’s political and economic landscape.