Madhya Pradesh ends Ministers' tax exemption | Fusion - WeRIndia

In a significant move, the Madhya Pradesh cabinet has decided that ministers will now personally pay their Income Tax.

Chief Minister Mohan Yadav announced that the cabinet had revoked a 1972 rule that made the state government responsible for paying taxes on ministers’ salaries and perks.

State Urban Administration Minister Kailash Vijayvargiya confirmed the decision. He stated that the CM suggested the change during a cabinet meeting, and it was promptly accepted. Consequently, all ministers will now pay taxes on their earnings and allowances.

This decision follows a similar initiative by the Assam government to curb the VIP culture.

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma recently declared that ministers and government officials will now pay their own electricity bills. This initiative is set to begin on July 1, 2024, with Sarma and the Chief Secretary leading by example.

In his announcement, Sarma emphasized the importance of ending VIP privileges funded by taxpayers.

He highlighted a new program to automatically disconnect electricity in government offices at 8 PM, with exceptions for essential departments like the Chief Minister’s Secretariat, Home, and Finance.

This initiative, already implemented in 8,000 government offices and schools, aims to promote energy conservation.

Moreover, Sarma revealed plans to transition all government establishments to solar power, starting with medical colleges and universities across the state.

This move underscores the state’s commitment to sustainability and reducing electricity consumption.

The decisions of both Madhya Pradesh and Assam reflect a growing trend towards greater accountability and fiscal responsibility among public servants.

By paying their own taxes and utility bills, ministers and officials are expected to set an example of responsible governance.

These measures are likely to resonate well with the public, fostering a culture of transparency and prudent resource management.

Madhya Pradesh’s recent policy change marks a shift towards greater accountability, mirroring Assam’s efforts to end VIP privileges and promote energy efficiency.

These initiatives highlight the importance of public servants leading by example in fiscal responsibility and sustainable practices.

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