Public resentment is rising across Odisha after the State government approved a threefold increase in the salaries of MLAs. The decision has sparked widespread criticism, with many questioning the timing and justification of such a steep hike.

Job aspirants - already demoralised by repeated exam delays, irregularities, and administrative lapses- have expressed deep frustration. Many argue that salaries should be linked to performance, and that MLAs, too, should be required to present periodic 'report cards', similar to ministers. The youth, in particular, feel disillusioned, questioning the value of years of preparation when recruitment exams themselves are repeatedly mishandled.

The newly revised pay now takes an MLA’s monthly earnings to around Rs 3.5 lakh, making Odisha’s legislators

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