Motion for Amendment of the Pay Structure Reform Act of Bhutan 2022
The Member of the Economic and Finance Committee, a member from Mongar constituency, moved the motion to review and amend the Pay Structure Reform Act of Bhutan 2022 and other associated laws such as the Civil Service Reform Act, 2022.
The Committee highlighted inconsistencies in these laws with the constitution and other laws, affecting parliamentary entitlements, civil service benefits, and allowances for Embassies, Missions, and Consulates General (EMC). Key issues included prorated leave encashment, mandatory annual leave, reduced Daily Subsistence Allowances, removal of vehicle and duty-free quotas, fluctuating exchange rates for foreign allowances, and limited access to affordable healthcare for EMC staff. These challenges have demotivated public servants, disrupted critical services, and hindered the implementation of the 13th Five-Year Plan. The motion called on the Government to table the Pay Structure Reform Act (Amendment) Bill for a comprehensive review and amendment during the 2025 summer session of the National Assembly, while a relevant committee of the National Assembly of Bhutan will review the Civil Service Reform Act 2022.
Debating on the Motion, many members voiced their support for the motion. However, the constitutionality of amendment of the Pay Structure Reform Act was brought to attention particularly with regard to Article 30 of the Constitution of the Kingdom of Bhutan.
The House, after lengthy debate, adopted the motion with 32 Yes, 7 Abstention and 2 No out of 41 members present and voting.
