Maharashtra MLC decries hike in salaries of legislators

An independent MLC of Maharashtra today opposed the "unwarranted" hike in salaries of legislators in the state, and said it was "appalling" that the Bill effecting the measure was passed without any discussion.
Shrikant Deshpande, elected from Amravati division's teacher's constituency, has dashed off a missive to Council Chairman Ramraje Nimbalkar to register his protest and requested him not to accept the hiked salary.
"I am appalled. There was no demand to hike the salaries...Not a single proposal was mooted, forget about the discussion over it...This Bill was passed in less than a minute," Deshpande told PTI today.
The legislator said he has requested the Chairman not to accept the hiked salary until teachers working in non-aided schools and colleges the since last 15 years are not given their financial dues.

"I have learnt this unwarranted hike in the salaries of legislators would cost an additional burden of Rs 50 crore annually. This money, rather than spending on millionaires, could be used in welfare schemes for the needy and common people...Or for those working on paltry salaries in non-aided schools."
On August 5, the last day of Monsoon Session, the Assembly passed a Bill approving a hefty hike in salaries and allowances of legislators, Ministers and presiding officers.
The salary hike would benefit a total of 325 members (Assembly and Council), 39 Ministers, two Opposition leaders and four presiding officers.
Deshpande added, "I have written the letter guided by my conscience. The decision would send a wrong signal and show we are not acting responsibly. I hope a few like-minded people would come forward (and oppose the hike).