As preparations begin for the formation of the 13th Jatiya Sangsad following the national election, attention has once again turned to the salaries, allowances and privileges enjoyed by Members of Parliament (MPs).

The Election Commission has published the gazette notifications of 297 newly elected lawmakers to the 13th Parliament, paving the way for the oath-taking ceremony. With the new legislature set to assume office, questions about the state-funded benefits provided to MPs have resurfaced.

Under the Members of Parliament (Remuneration and Allowances) Order, 1973 and subsequent amendments, lawmakers are entitled to a comprehensive package of financial benefits and institutional support designed to facilitate their legislative and constituency duties.

Monthly salary and allowances

An MP receives a basic monthly salary of Tk 55,000. In addition, they are entitled to several allowances, including:

Constituency allowance: Tk 12,500

Entertainment allowance: Tk 5,000

Transport allowance: Tk 70,000 (covering fuel, vehicle maintenance and driver's salary)

Office expense allowance: Tk 15,000

Laundry allowance: Tk 1,500

Miscellaneous allowance: Tk 6,000

Together, these components significantly increase the monthly remuneration beyond the basic salary.

Vehicle facilities

MPs are entitled to import a car, jeep or microbus duty-free, exempt from customs duties, VAT and other taxes. After five years, they may import a new vehicle under the same facility.

Travel benefits

For official travel by air, rail or water, MPs are entitled to 1.5 times the highest class fare. For road journeys, they receive a per-kilometre allowance.

They are also eligible for a domestic annual travel allowance of Tk 120,000 or may opt for a travel pass.

Daily allowances

While on official duty, MPs receive a daily allowance of Tk 750 and a travel allowance of Tk 75.

For attendance at parliamentary sittings or committee meetings, the daily allowance is Tk 800, with a travel allowance of Tk 200.

Medical facilities

MPs and their family members are entitled to medical care at government level facilities. In addition, lawmakers receive a monthly medical allowance of Tk 700.

Insurance coverage

In case of death or permanent disability while on duty, MPs are covered by government insurance worth Tk 10 lakh.

Optional grant fund

Each MP may receive up to Tk 5 lakh per year as a discretionary grant for use in their constituency, subject to relevant rules.

Telecommunication facilities

Lawmakers are provided with an official telephone connection at their residence. The state bears monthly telephone and call expenses up to Tk 7,800.

Tax exemption

All allowances and benefits received by MPs are exempt from income tax.