Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented her record eighth consecutive Union Budget on Saturday, outlining the government’s vision for economic growth and development. However, the Budget faced sharp criticism from opposition parties, who labeled it the “weakest budget in 10 years” and accused the government of ignoring pressing issues like inflation, unemployment, and the recent Maha Kumbh stampede.
Opposition Reactions to Budget 2025:
1. Samajwadi Party (SP):
SP chief Akhilesh Yadav led a symbolic walkout during the Budget speech, demanding a discussion on the Maha Kumbh stampede. He criticized the government for its handling of the tragedy, stating, “For us, the data of people who died in the stampede is more important than the budget data. The government is not able to tell how many people died, went missing, or got injured. Is this your definition of a ‘Viksit Bharat’?”
2. Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP):
Former UP CM Mayawati called the Budget “more about political interests than people’s welfare.” She highlighted the struggles of the common man, saying, “The life of people in India is troubled due to inflation, poverty, and unemployment. The dream of a ‘developed India’ should also include the interests of the Bahujans.”
3. Congress:
Congress MP Gaurav Gogoi termed the Budget “the weakest in the last 10 years” and demanded a discussion on the Kumbh stampede. He said, “We want the truth to come out. The INDIA Alliance walked out as we have not received any information on whether the discussion will take place.”
4. Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD):
SAD MP Harsimrat Kaur Badal slammed the Budget as “anti-farmer,” pointing out the lack of measures for Punjab’s farmers. She said, “Farmers have been protesting for MSP for four years, but the government only announced a Makhana Board. This is a sad reflection of how farmers’ voices are being ignored.”
5. Congress MP Karti Chidambaram:
Chidambaram urged caution, stating, “The devil is in the details. We need to see what happened to the schemes announced in previous budgets before judging this one. It seems budgets are now made with an eye on elections rather than long-term development.”
Key Opposition Concerns:
- Maha Kumbh Stampede: Opposition parties demanded immediate discussion and transparency on the tragedy.
- Inflation and Unemployment: Critics argued the Budget failed to address rising prices and joblessness.
- Farmers’ Issues: The lack of MSP guarantees and focus on Bihar’s Makhana Board drew ire from farmer representatives.
- Election-Centric Focus: Opposition leaders accused the government of tailoring the Budget to suit electoral gains rather than national development.
Budget Session Timeline:
The first part of the Budget session will continue till February 13, with Parliament reconvening on March 10 after a recess. The session will conclude on April 4.