Pensioners not parliamentarians

This refers to the news report, ‘Three-fold raise in salaries of MPs approved’ (May 20). Like other pensioners, I was expecting the long-awaited raise or revision in our pensions in the upcoming budget. Instead we got this news. Being a pensioner, I have the right to ask the National Assembly Standing Committee on Rules of Procedure and Privileges to justify this phenomenal increase.

Are parliamentarians paid low salaries? Do they not have huge wealth – declared and hidden? What is their contribution towards making this country free of corruption? The majority of these parliamentarians remain absent during NA sessions. One would suggest that parliamentarians’ current allowances and salaries should be cut down to half of the present level, and low-paid pensioners be given at least a double raise.

Abid Mahmud Ansari

Islamabad