Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed an investigation after a significant pay raise for the National Assembly speaker, deputy speaker, Senate chairman, and deputy chairman. The decision to boost their salaries by 600%, from Rs205,000 to Rs1.95 million, has faced criticism from various quarters.

Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has denounced the raise as 'financial vulgarity,' highlighting the insensitivity of such increments amidst public struggles. He stressed the importance of prioritizing the well-being of the people for maintaining dignity and honor.

Responding to the backlash, the National Assembly and Senate secretariat clarified that the salary adjustments were not self-imposed but approved by the federal government. Sources indicated that the officials could not unilaterally raise their salaries without the consent of the prime minister and the cabinet.

Moreover, a government notification released on May 29 outlined the revised salaries and allowances, including a 50% increase in discretionary allowances. The budget documents also reveal a rise in the salaries of parliamentarians and the federal cabinet compared to the previous year.

The proposed budget allocates significant amounts for various expenses, including salaries, perks, and travel allowances for members of the National Assembly, Senate, and cabinet. The revised Act for parliamentarians specifies a range of perks, including air tickets, daily allowances, office expenses, telephone bills, and vehicle expenses.

Additionally, committee chairpersons and other officials are entitled to specific benefits, such as additional monthly allowances, petrol quotas, employees, vehicles, and office facilities. Both current and former members of parliament will receive health and other facilities equivalent to federal secretaries.