(Former CM of Delhi) : Arvind Kejriwal, the Chief Minister of Delhi, is currently facing a turbulent phase in his political career. With his resignation or removal, questions arise regarding his post-office benefits—particularly his pension. Unlike other government officials and elected representatives, former Chief Ministers in India receive certain perks, including pensions. However, the amount, duration, and benefits vary from state to state.
So, how much pension will Arvind Kejriwal receive after stepping down as Delhi’s CM? What are the specific provisions for former Chief Ministers in Delhi? Let’s take a closer look.
How Much Pension Do Former Delhi CMs Receive?
Unlike many other Indian states where former CMs enjoy lifelong pensions and multiple perks, Delhi follows a different structure. According to the Delhi government’s pension policy:
- A former Chief Minister is entitled to a monthly pension of ₹50,000.
- If the former CM has also been an MLA, they receive an additional amount per year of service.
- The pension is subject to revisions and amendments by the Delhi government.
Let’s compare this with other states where ex-CMs enjoy substantial pensions and lifetime benefits.
Pension of Former Chief Ministers: Delhi vs Other States
| State | Monthly Pension (₹) | Other Benefits (Bungalow, Staff, Security) |
|---|---|---|
| Delhi | 50,000 | No Bungalow, limited staff |
| Uttar Pradesh | 35,000 + ₹5,000 per year of service | Free bungalow, security, and staff |
| Maharashtra | 75,000 | Free house, car, and medical benefits |
| West Bengal | 55,000 | Residence, security, and travel perks |
| Tamil Nadu | 75,000 | Lifetime medical care and office staff |
| Karnataka | 50,000 + allowances | Residence, travel perks, security |
| Punjab | 60,000 + ₹10,000 per year of service | Security, staff, and residence |
What Perks Do Former Delhi CMs Get?
Despite being the capital of India, Delhi does not provide many perks to its former Chief Ministers. Here’s what a former CM of Delhi is entitled to:
- No Official Residence: Unlike states like UP and Maharashtra, Delhi does not provide a government bungalow to ex-CMs.
- Security Cover: A limited security detail is assigned based on the threat perception of the former CM.
- Travel Allowance: Former Delhi CMs receive limited travel allowances, mainly for government-related activities.
- Medical Benefits: They are entitled to free medical treatment at government hospitals in Delhi.
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How Does This Compare to the Pension of MPs and MLAs?
Apart from CMs, MLAs and MPs also receive pensions based on their tenure. Here’s how their pensions compare:
| Position | Monthly Pension (₹) | Additional Perks |
|---|---|---|
| MP (Member of Parliament) | ₹25,000 + ₹2,000 per year of service | Free travel, staff, housing allowance |
| MLA (Delhi) | ₹15,000 + ₹1,000 per year of service | No free housing, limited perks |
| CM (Delhi) | ₹50,000 + MLA pension | Limited security and staff |
Interestingly, former MPs often receive more benefits than former Chief Ministers, especially in terms of travel allowances and staff assistance.
Why Is Delhi’s CM Pension Lower Than Other States?
The lower pension and limited perks for Delhi’s Chief Ministers can be attributed to:
- Delhi’s Unique Status: As a Union Territory with a Legislative Assembly, Delhi does not have full statehood. This impacts the benefits provided to its politicians.
- Public Perception: Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), led by Arvind Kejriwal, has always advocated against VIP culture and unnecessary expenses. Therefore, excessive benefits for former CMs do not align with their ideology.
- Government Policies: The Delhi government has kept pensions and post-retirement perks relatively minimal compared to other states to reduce expenditure.
Do Former CMs Lose Pension If They Take Another Government Job?
In most states, a former CM continues to receive a pension even if they take up another job. However, in some cases:
- If they become a Governor or hold a constitutional post, their CM pension may be suspended.
- If they become an MP or MLA again, they receive both salaries, but pensions may be adjusted accordingly.
Arvind Kejriwal, upon stepping down as Delhi’s Chief Minister, will be entitled to a monthly pension of ₹50,000, along with any additional MLA pension. However, unlike former CMs from other states, he will not receive a government bungalow or extensive post-retirement perks.
The structure of Delhi’s pension system for former Chief Ministers reflects a conscious effort to avoid excessive expenditures on political leaders. While many states provide lifelong luxury benefits, Delhi maintains a more restricted approach, aligning with its unique governance model.
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Ultimately, whether this policy is fair or needs revision remains a topic of debate in Indian politics.