Panaji, Nov 17 (TOI): Chief minister Manohar Parrikar on Thursday said he was considering hiking the salaries of the state's MLAs, a matter that is likely to come up during the winter assembly session. He reasoned that substantial salaries would give legislators no reason to indulge in corruption.

Parrikar also said MLAs' salaries were last increased six years ago, and that the spike in inflation levels in the state now demanded another pay increase.

Salaries and benefits of MLAs and ministers last saw an increase in August 2012.

"I am going to hike the salaries of MLAs in the coming months. I am the only person who has said bluntly that if MLAs don't get proper funds, they will have reason to commit corruption. I am not saying that after giving the hikes everyone will be clean. But at least the reason for corruption will not exist," Parrikar said.

The chief minister also said there are many financial obligations constituents require their MLAs to fulfil, and these obligations require funds.

"How many know the pressure on MLAs? I don't think you know. People expect donations. Even what I get as MLA, flows out in these donations and miscellaneous expenses. A politician today is required to be a 24-hour politician. He can hardly carry out his own business. That is why he has to be paid reasonably well," the chief minister said.

Parrikar said government servants' salaries have gone up in recent times due to the 7th Pay Commission recommendations being implemented, and said MLAs' salaries needed to at least be on a par.

"The salary of any person getting government support needs to keep up with inflation. The cost of living index in Goa is rising. If any section of society does not get protection, that section remains insecure," he said.