In a surprising move amidst ongoing austerity measures, the Punjab Assembly has passed the Punjab Revision of Salaries of Public Representatives Bill 2024, which significantly raises the salaries and allowances for provincial ministers, assembly members, and other officials.
While Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and his federal cabinet voluntarily decided to forgo their salaries and perks in March 2024 as part of efforts to reduce government expenditures, the recent decision in Punjab has led to a sharp contrast.
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The newly approved salary adjustments are as follows:
- Provincial Ministers: Their salaries have been increased from Rs100,000 to Rs960,000.
- Speaker of the Assembly: A notable hike from Rs125,000 to Rs950,000.
- Deputy Speaker: A significant rise from Rs120,000 to Rs800,000.
- Parliamentary Secretaries: Their pay has been raised from Rs83,000 to Rs451,000.
- Advisors and Special Assistants to the Chief Minister: These officials will now receive Rs665,000, up from Rs100,000.
This move reflects a substantial increase in the compensation of provincial officials in Punjab, stirring debate over the timing of the decision, especially when the federal cabinet had taken a different stance by voluntarily giving up their salaries. The decision has prompted mixed reactions across the political landscape, with some questioning the rationale behind the increase amid economic challenges and austerity efforts at the national level.
Critics argue that the increase in salaries contradicts the austerity measures taken by the federal government and could further strain the province’s budget. However, supporters of the bill believe that the revision is necessary to ensure fair compensation for public representatives, especially in light of the growing cost of living and inflation.
As the new salary structure takes effect, all eyes will be on how the public and political leaders respond to this controversial development in Punjab.
