TNI Bureau: The Biju Janata Dal (BJD) urged Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi to reconsider the recent decision to increase the salaries of MLAs and pensions of former legislators, citing public reaction to the move.

Addressing a press conference at Sankha Bhawan, BJD MLA and Chief Whip of the Opposition Pramila Mallick and Deputy Chief Whip Pratap Keshari Deb said the appeal was made following the directions of party president and Leader of Opposition Naveen Patnaik.

Pramila Mallick said the decision to hike MLAs’ salaries and former MLAs’ pensions was passed unanimously in the Odisha Assembly on December 9. However, the move has since triggered reactions among the public.

She said Naveen Patnaik had earlier announced that he would not accept the enhanced salary and had written to the Chief Minister requesting that the additional amount be utilised for welfare programmes for the poor.

Respecting public sentiment, the BJD has now formally requested the Chief Minister to review the decision, she added.

Pratap Keshari Deb said the party hopes the state government will take note of the public response and take an appropriate decision after reconsideration.