Jammu, Mar 16: Newly elected Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs) in Jammu and Kashmir are grappling with a sharp increase in accommodation costs at the MLA Hostel in Jammu. Daily charges have surged from Rs 30 to Rs 500, causing significant concern among the legislators. Although many are unhappy with the hike, most remain hesitant to speak out publicly, fearing backlash from the public.
The new rates mean an MLA staying at the hostel for an entire month now faces a bill of Rs 15,000. This is a considerable rise from the earlier monthly cost of just Rs 900. For first-time MLAs who do not own homes in Jammu, the price hike is creating a heavy financial burden, pushing some to explore other housing options.
A newly elected MLA, who requested anonymity, criticized the increase, calling it “unjustified” and a “financial burden.” He said, “This is an unnecessary expense. We are here to serve the people, but that doesn’t mean we should be charged exorbitantly for basic accommodation. Many of us also have to manage expenses in our constituencies, and Rs 15,000 a month is a lot of money.”
Another MLA raised concerns about the difficulty of speaking out against the hike, saying, “If we protest, people will accuse us of asking for privileges when the common man is already struggling with inflation. But the truth is, this increase is unfair. Why should legislators suddenly face such high charges when the rates were reasonable before?”
In response to the rising costs, several MLAs have opted to move into private accommodations. One legislator explained, “I have decided to rent an apartment instead of paying Rs 500 per day. It makes no sense to stay at the hostel when I can find a flat for a similar price. At least in a private residence, I get more comfort and privacy.”
As a result of the price hike, only about eight to ten MLAs remain at the hostel. Most have either moved to rented apartments or returned to their private homes. Legislators without homes in Jammu now face a difficult decision—either continue paying the high hostel fees or find alternative, often more expensive, options.
Assembly Speaker Abdul Rahim Rather has responded to the growing concerns by forming a committee to review the accommodation rate hike. Sources suggest the committee will assess whether the increase was justified and if any relief can be provided to the lawmakers.
The debate over whether elected representatives should receive subsidized accommodation or pay full market rates has sparked controversy. Some MLAs are also advocating for a raise in their salaries, from Rs 1.5 lakh to Rs 2.5 lakh per month or more, adding fuel to the ongoing discussion about their privileges.
For now, MLAs who are still staying at the hostel have no choice but to absorb the increased costs, while others scramble to find more affordable housing solutions. The issue is expected to remain in the spotlight as the committee reviews the situation.
