Why should Andhra MLAs and MLCs lag behind when the their counterparts in neighbouring Telangana are expected to get fat salaries in tune with the growing cost of living.

Recommending huge hike in the salary and allowances, Andhra Pradesh Assembly Committee on Amenities is said to have submitted a report to the House Saturday. The committee is always headed by the speaker of Assembly.

According to sources, the legislators sought huge increase in the emoluments, car loan, book allowance etc. Already the MLAs are eligible for fully furnished quarters, free water supply and electricity as well as medical aid. They are also eligible for railway passes. For the smooth performance of the legislative responsibilities, Assembly provides them a lap printer with scanner, Tab etc.

Today the committee is said to have recommended a hike in wages from present Rs 90,000 to Rs 2 lakh which includes Salary of Rs 1.50 lakh and DA of Rs 50,000. The committee also recommended a car loan of Rs 40 lakh from the present Rs 10 lakh. For the purchase of books during their tenure, the committee recommended Rs 1 lakh grant. According to sources, a final decision is likely before the closure of the budget session.

Last week, the Telangana Assembly Amenities Committee has recommended a unprecedented hike in the salaries of T-MLAs and MLCs. If implemented the salary of Telangana legislator will go up Rs 1.25 lakh to Rs 3.5 lakh. The committee wants a Rs 40 lakh car loan, a pension of Rs 65,000 and PA allowance of Rs 25,000 for MLAs and MLCs.