Odisha Budget Battle: Allegations Against Fiscal Vision

The supplementary budget presented by Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi faced criticism from Leader of Opposition Naveen Patnaik, who claimed it lacked vision and infrastructure development focus. Majhi defended the budget, emphasizing resource reallocation for public welfare, despite rising administrative expenses and debt concerns.

Naveen Patnaik, Odisha's Leader of Opposition, criticized the supplementary budget presented by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi, calling it visionless and inadequate for addressing infrastructure needs. Patnaik asserted that the budget, with its Rs 17,440 crore allocation, dives the state deeper into fiscal deficit risks.

Patnaik expressed disappointment over the allocation, highlighting the absence of significant infrastructure projects. He claimed that despite efforts to cut administrative expenses, Odisha's debt continues to mount, undermining the state's fiscal health.

Meanwhile, Majhi, also overseeing the Finance Department, defended the budget as a strategic approach to fund public welfare and development, primarily through reallocation and tied-up resources. He countered allegations of insufficient central grants and revenue shortfalls.

(With inputs from agencies.)