Delay in MPs' pay hike figures in RS

The issue of hike in salary and allowances of MPs figured in the Rajya Sabha on Tuesday with members wanting to know by when the government proposed to increase their wages.

The issue of hike in salary and allowances of MPs figured in the Rajya Sabha on Tuesday with members wanting to know by when the government proposed to increase their wages.

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Rajniti Prasad (RJD) raised the issue when the House met for the day and instantly found support from members in the opposition benches.

"What has happened to the proposal to increase MPs' salary, we want to know," he said citing media reports that the Cabinet yesterday deferred a decision on the issue.

Chairman Hamid Ansari said only questions can be taken up during the Question Hour but members were unrelenting.

Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee said the matter was under consideration of the government.

"The report of the Joint Committee on salary and allowances of Members of Parliament has been received by the government. It is under consideration," he said without giving a time frame by when it would be implemented.

Mukherjee's reply did not satisfy members who insisted on knowing by when it will be implemented and why Cabinet deliberations were being selectively leaked to media.

Ansari did not allow anyone to speak on the issue and took up the listed questions.

"We are not discussing this matter. Please allow Question Hour to proceed," he said. "This is not the time (for raising the issue)."

The House then took up the listed agenda.