On Monday, the Punjab Assembly passed an amendment bill significantly increasing the financial perks and privileges of elected members, including ministers, parliamentary secretaries, special assistants, and advisers. This move, as per the Punjab Revision of Salaries of Public Representatives Bill 2024, has sparked widespread discussion due to the dramatic increments ranging from 426% to 860%.

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Key Details of the Salary Revision

• Provincial Ministers: Salary increased from Rs. 100,000 to Rs. 960,000 (860% rise).
• Speaker of Punjab Assembly: Salary surged from Rs. 125,000 to Rs. 950,000.
• Deputy Speaker: New salary Rs. 775,000, up from Rs. 120,000.
• Parliamentary Secretaries: Pay increased from Rs. 83,000 to Rs. 451,000.
• Special Assistants and Advisers: Monthly earnings now Rs. 665,000 from Rs. 100,000.
• Members of Provincial Assembly (MPAs): Monthly income raised from Rs. 76,000 to Rs. 400,000.

These figures reflect a sharp contrast to the provincial government’s minimum wage of Rs. 37,000 set in the recent budget.

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Public Debate and Opposition Reaction

Opposition leader Ahmed Khan Bhachar questioned the legality of the bill under the Parliamentary Laws Act of 1972 and criticized its timing, suggesting it could alienate the general public. Despite his objections, Speaker Malik Muhammad Ahmed Khan defended the decision, labeling it a “positive step.”

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Law and Order Updates

The session also highlighted the province’s security situation. Minister Mujtaba Shuja claimed a 29% decrease in crime during the fiscal year 2023-24. The government announced plans to expand the Safe City project across all districts and enhance police capabilities with modern weapons.

However, political tensions persisted as the opposition accused the government of repressing dissent, with references to the PTI’s blocked protests and alleged mistreatment of workers.

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A Moment of Reflection: APS Peshawar Resolution

In a unanimous resolution, the house expressed solidarity with the families of the APS Peshawar attack victims, honoring the bravery of the teachers and students involved in the tragic event. The resolution called for strict action against terrorists, emphasizing that leniency is not an option.