Congress and Allies Voice Expectations Ahead of Union Budget 2024-25

As the Union Budget 2024-25 looms, Congress and other political leaders highlight pressing issues such as inflation, unemployment, and income inequality. Nirmala Sitharaman prepares to deliver her seventh consecutive budget amidst calls for measures to support the middle class and economic reforms to benefit all strata of society.

Addressing pressing economic concerns, Uttar Pradesh Congress President Ajay Rai urged for decisive measures in the upcoming Union Budget 2024-25, specifically to curb skyrocketing prices of essential commodities and life-saving drugs. Rai emphasized that inflation must be controlled and employment opportunities created to meet the aspirations of the middle class.

Echoing these sentiments, Shiv Sena UBT faction leader Priyanka Chaturvedi called on the Finance Minister to address unemployment and inflation. 'I hope Nirmala Sitharaman ji will provide some relief from rising costs and joblessness,' Chaturvedi said, urging a focus on public concerns.

DMK leader TKS Elangovan expressed frustration over past unfulfilled promises, criticizing the budget as favoring the wealthy at the expense of the poor. Highlighting income inequality, Elangovan stressed that financial policies should support lower-income families and boost domestic consumption.

In preparation for the budget announcement, the Congress party convened a strategy meeting at Sonia Gandhi's residence, discussing priorities for the parliamentary session. This marks Nirmala Sitharaman's seventh consecutive budget presentation, setting a new record.

Today's budget session will see Sitharaman propose significant changes to the income tax structure and measures to enhance business operations. The session, spanning 16 sittings over 22 days, commenced with the tabling of the Economic Survey 2023-24.

As opposition parties prepare to challenge the government on diverse issues such as the NEET-UG row, this budget session promises to be a critical juncture for India's economic policies.