Jammu and Kashmir’s 2024 Assembly elections marked a significant milestone, being the first since the revocation of Article 370 in 2019. This pivotal event saw the restructuring of constituencies, increasing the number of Assembly seats from 83 to 90.  But have you ever wondered how much Salary of an MLA in Jammu and Kashmir?

As the newly elected Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs) take office, their salary structure, pensions, and benefits are of keen interest. This article explores the comprehensive compensation package for Ministers and MLAs in Jammu and Kashmir, providing detailed insights into their entitlements.

When the Legislative Assembly of erstwhile State of Jammu and Kashmir was dissolved in November 2018, the legislators were getting Rs 3 cr  Constituency Development Fund per year and Rs 1.6 lakh perks including Rs 80,000 salary and an equal amount as allowances, per month.

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Salary Package of Jammu and Kashmir Ministers and MLAs before abrogation of Article 370 and introduction of The Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019

The following details of MLA salaries pertain to the period before the 2018 dissolution of the Jammu and Kashmir Assembly. In 2016, the Assembly unanimously approved a bill, without any amendments, demonstrating broad political support for salary and pension increases:

• Legislators’ Salaries: The salary of legislators, Rs 80,000 per month, is doubled to Rs 1,60,000.
• Chief Minister’s Salary: Increased from Rs 45,000 to Rs 70,000 per month.
• Cabinet Ministers’ Salary: Raised from Rs 40,000 to Rs 65,000 per month.
• Ministers of State: Their salaries increased from Rs 35,000 to Rs 60,000 per month.

In addition to above, the Chief Minister’s overall monthly earnings, which stood at Rs 90,000, has been increased to Rs 1.15 lakh, including allowances. Similarly, Cabinet Ministers’ total compensation increased from Rs 85,000 to Rs 1.10 lakh, while Ministers of State will see their pay jump from Rs 80,000 to Rs 1.05 lakh per month.

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These increased salaries come with additional entitlements, such as travel allowances (TA/DA), free accommodation, vehicles, and fuel allowances, making the positions more financially rewarding.

Pension Increases for Former Legislators

The bill also addresses the financial well-being of former legislators, significantly enhancing their monthly pensions from Rs 28,000 to Rs 50,000. In addition to this increase, they will continue to receive Rs 5,000 per month as a medical allowance.

Family Pension for Dependents

In the unfortunate event of an MLA’s demise, the family is entitled to 50% of the pension amount. Widows or widowers continue to receive these benefits, ensuring financial security for the surviving family members.

Additional Perks and Benefits

Travel and Accommodation

MLAs in Jammu and Kashmir enjoy free travel within the state for official purposes. This includes air travel allowances for specific journeys, along with access to government guest houses across the state. These travel benefits extend to both serving and retired MLAs, providing them with annual travel passes for themselves and their spouses.

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Housing and Vehicle Allowance

Current and former MLAs are provided with official accommodation during their term. Ministers, in particular, are allotted large government residences equipped with full security detail. In addition, they receive a vehicle allowance or an official car for personal and official use. This provision is extended post-retirement in the form of a vehicle maintenance allowance for senior ministers.

Medical Allowance

Jammu and Kashmir’s MLAs receive a comprehensive medical package, ensuring coverage for major treatments across both government and private hospitals. Retired MLAs also continue to enjoy these benefits, which can significantly ease the burden of medical expenses in later life.

Salaries and allowances of MLA in Jammu Kashmir after introduction of The Jammu & Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019

In light of the just-held Jammu and Kashmir Assembly elections, the issue of legislators’ salaries and allowances continues to be significant. Since the revocation of Article 370 and the introduction of The Jammu & Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019, the determination of MLA compensation has shifted. As per the Act, members of the Legislative Assembly in Jammu and Kashmir will receive salaries and allowances as decided by the Legislative Assembly itself, through law. However, until the Assembly enacts such provisions, the Lieutenant Governor retains the authority to determine these salaries by order.

As far as perks of the MLAs are concerned, sources said, the Government is likely to go with Rs 1.6 lakh which they were getting in the last Assembly which ceased to exist in November 2018 including Rs 80,000 salary and Rs 80,000 worth allowances.

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The Government, as per the sources is seized of the issue and detailed guidelines pertaining to CDF will also be issued along with total amount to be given to the MLAs for carrying out development works in their constituencies.

This framework provides flexibility for future adjustments, reflecting the evolving governance structure of Jammu and Kashmir post-reorganisation. The recent elections could influence how these laws are shaped, given the new political landscape.