PM Imran ‘disappointed’ after Punjab Assembly increases salaries of lawmakers

Prime Minister Imran Khan on Thursday expressed his disappointment on Punjab Assembly’s decision to increase the salaries and perks of lawmakers.

“I am extremely disappointed by decision of Punjab Assembly to raise pays & privileges of MPAs, Ministers & esp CM,” said PM Imran in a tweet.

The premier added that “once prosperity returns to Pakistan such a move could be justified, but now, when we do not have resources to provide basic amenities to all our people, this is untenable.”

Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry also criticised the provincial government and the chief minister for the increase in salaries.

Calling it a ‘sham exercise’, the information minister further said that the provincial government is in “the dark about the PM and federal government’s austerity policies”.

Federal Minister for Human Rights Shireen Mazari referred to the Punjab Assembly’s move as “shameful behavior in these financially critical times.”

Punjab legislature directly contravenes PTI govt policy of austerity and cost cutting, the minister went on to add in a tweet.

The Punjab Assembly on Wednesday unanimously approved a bill seeking increment in the salaries and compensation of the members of the assembly.

According to the salary slip, PM Imran’s disposable income amounts to approximately Rs0.19m while his basic salary stands at Rs0.10m. He receives Rs21,456 as adhoc relief allowance; the guest allowance is Rs50,000 while the adhoc relief is Rs12,110. Rs4,595 in lieu of tax are deducted from his salary.

On the other hand, Punjab Chief Minister Usman Buzdar’s income amounts Rs0.35 million, while members of Punjab Assembly earn up to Rs0.2m.

Source: Express Tribune