K’taka MLAs, MLCs to get lunch in Vidhana Soudha: Speaker hopes this will curb absenteeism

The decision was taken so that lawmakers do not have to go out in search of places to eat and can participate in the post-lunch session.

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In order to avoid absenteeism in the state assembly during the post-lunch session, Karnataka Vidhana Soudha will serve food for members of the legislative assembly and legislative council.

The announcement was made by Speaker KB Koliwad who assured that the food will be prepared keeping in mind the health condition of the members, including those with diabetes and heart problems.

Deccan Herald reported that this decision was taken so that lawmakers do not have to go out in search of places to eat during lunchtime and hence can participate in the post-lunch session.

“There have been complaints about legislators coming to the Assembly hall of their own will, signing the register and disappearing from the Vidhana Soudha to attend to other works. This has to change as they are supposed to take part in the legislature proceedings,” Koliwad said.

The menu which will change every day, will have both vegetarian and non-vegetarian cuisine along with fruits, the report said.

This comes after the Speaker called off the post-lunch session on June 16 due to low attendance.

News X on September 28 had reported that two MLAs of the ruling Congress had only attended the assembly for four and five days respectively. Another six MLAs had attended the Assembly for 60-82 days out of 218 days.

Karnataka MLAs and MLCs are entitled to a basic salary of Rs 25,000, telephone allowance of Rs 20,000, constituency allowance of Rs 40,000, and constituency travel allowance of Rs 40,000.

Other than this, they also get pension of Rs 40,000 and other perks like travel allowances.