TN MLAs to get cars, Rs 75K monthly allowance, 5-fold health cover hike under Vijay government

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Joseph Vijay has announced a series of benefits for all 234 MLAs, including government cars, a monthly allowance for fuel and maintenance, funds to hire secretaries and a significant increase in health insurance cover.

The package was announced in the Assembly after VCK MLA Jothimani raised concerns about the logistical difficulties faced by legislators while working in their constituencies.

Government cars for all 234 MLAs

Under the new arrangement, every MLA in Tamil Nadu will be provided with a government vehicle for constituency-related work. The state government said the move would help legislators travel more frequently and address issues raised by residents.

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"MLAs need to travel to their constituencies frequently to address people's problems. Government vehicle will ensure transparent and corruption free governance," the Chief Minister announced in the Assembly, justifying the expense.

The government also pointed out that several members of the current Assembly are first-time legislators from humble backgrounds and may need logistical support to carry out their responsibilities.

Rs 75,000 monthly allowance announced

Along with the vehicles, MLAs will receive Rs 75,000 every month towards the expenses of drivers, fuel and vehicle maintenance.

The government will also provide a state grant of Rs 25,000 to each MLA to hire a secretary for official work.

The health cover available to elected representatives has also been increased. Under the revised provision, the insurance cover will rise from Rs 5 lakh to Rs 25 lakh.

Ruling alliance welcomes move

The announcements received a positive response from several legislators.

TVK ally and Congress MLA Tharagai Cuthbert welcomed the measures and said they had made the MLAs "so happy". She also said opposition legislators would welcome the decision, even if they might not publicly express it.

School Education minister Raj Mohan also supported the package. He said the measures would not only help MLAs carry out their responsibilities but could also generate employment for drivers and secretaries.

DMK questions additional expenditure

The opposition DMK, however, criticised the government's decision, calling it an unnecessary expense.

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"This decision will need a lot of money. Car for all 234 MLAs will cost a lot to the state and then there are additional allowances announced. What was the need?" DMK spokesperson A Sarvanan told NDTV.

The announcements are expected to add to the government's expenditure, with the opposition questioning the need for the additional facilities.