Who says times are bad ?

Karnataka legislators passed legislation on Wednesday, giving themselves a big fat hike in salary and perks. Earlier, they were getting Rs 20,000 as pay and phone, constituency and postal allowances. Now, they will get almost double the amount — Rs 39,000. They are also entitled to several other benefits like train travel and sitting fee. The Karnataka Legislature Salaries, Pensions and Allowances (Amendment) Bill 2009 has hiked the monthly salaries of legislators by Rs 2,000 to Rs 10,000. Earlier, they used to draw Rs 8,000. Similarly, telephone allowance has been increased to Rs 10,000 from Rs 7,500. However, the bonanza legislators have got is in the constituency allowance. Now, they draw Rs 15,000 per month for visiting their constituency. Previously, they were eligible for Rs 3,500. Even the postal charges have been increased. Legislators now will get Rs 4,000 instead of Rs 1,000 every month. The amendment makes a room boy of a legislator richer. A total monthly salary of a room boy has been fixed at Rs 5,000, an increase of Rs 3,000. Legislators can expect better life, post retirement. Pension now has been enhanced to Rs 15,000 per month from mere Rs 5,000. Payment of family pension for life will be made to the dependent of the legislator.