Introduction

The Indian Constitution is the supreme law of the land, providing a framework for the functioning of the government and its various branches. Article 106 of the Indian Constitution specifically deals with the salaries and allowances of members of Parliament.

Article 106: Salaries and Allowances

Article 106 of the Indian Constitution states that the members of Parliament shall be entitled to receive salaries and allowances as determined by Parliament. This provision ensures that the elected representatives are adequately compensated for their services and can carry out their duties effectively.

The determination of salaries and allowances of members of Parliament is done by the Parliament itself through legislation. The Parliament has the power to enact laws related to the salaries, allowances, and other privileges of its members.

Salaries of Members of Parliament

The salaries of members of Parliament are determined by the Parliament from time to time. The current salary of a Member of Parliament is Rs. 1,00,000 per month. In addition to the salary, members are also entitled to various allowances and benefits.

Members of Parliament also receive a constituency allowance to meet the expenses incurred in maintaining an office in their respective constituencies. This allowance is intended to facilitate the smooth functioning of their parliamentary duties and to ensure that they are accessible to their constituents.

Furthermore, members of Parliament are entitled to a daily allowance for attending the sessions of Parliament or its committees. This allowance is provided to cover the expenses incurred by the members during their official duties.

Allowances and Benefits

In addition to the salary and constituency allowance, members of Parliament are entitled to various other allowances and benefits. These include:

• Housing allowance: Members of Parliament are provided with housing facilities or a housing allowance to meet their accommodation needs in the national capital or their respective constituencies.
• Travel allowance: Members of Parliament are entitled to travel allowances for their official journeys within the country and abroad.
• Medical facilities: Members of Parliament and their dependents are provided with medical facilities at government hospitals and dispensaries.
• Pension: Members of Parliament are eligible for a pension after serving for a certain period, subject to certain conditions.
• Concessional telephone facilities: Members of Parliament are provided with concessional telephone facilities to facilitate their communication.
• Study tour allowance: Members of Parliament are entitled to a study tour allowance to undertake official visits and gain insights into various aspects of governance.
• Constituency development allowance: Members of Parliament are provided with a constituency development allowance to undertake developmental activities in their respective constituencies.

Public Scrutiny

The salaries and allowances of members of Parliament have often been a subject of public scrutiny and debate. Critics argue that the remuneration provided to the elected representatives is excessive and does not commensurate with their performance or the economic conditions of the country.

On the other hand, proponents argue that the salaries and allowances are necessary to attract competent individuals to public service and to ensure that they are not tempted by corruption or other unethical practices.

It is important to note that the determination of salaries and allowances of members of Parliament is ultimately done by the Parliament itself. The responsibility lies with the elected representatives to strike a balance between the need for adequate compensation and the expectations of the public.

Conclusion

Article 106 of the Indian Constitution provides for the salaries and allowances of members of Parliament. The provision ensures that the elected representatives are adequately compensated for their services and can carry out their duties effectively. The determination of salaries and allowances is done by the Parliament through legislation. While the remuneration of members of Parliament has been a subject of public scrutiny, it is ultimately the responsibility of the elected representatives to strike a balance between the need for adequate compensation and the expectations of the public.