Finance Minister Sitharaman Rebuts Opposition’s Allegations on ‘Discriminatory’ Budget

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman refutes the opposition's claims that the recently presented budget is discriminatory towards various states. She calls the allegations 'outrageous' and suggests they are attempts to mislead the public. The opposition, led by Congress, holds protests asserting the budget favors only select states.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman strongly refuted allegations from opposition parties that the newly presented budget is 'discriminatory'. Describing these claims as 'outrageous' and 'deliberate attempts' to mislead the public, she responded to opposition leader Mallikarjun Kharge's accusations that certain states were ignored.

Addressing the Rajya Sabha, Sitharaman dismissed the criticism from Kharge, emphasizing that the Congress should understand the complexities of budget presentations given their long history in power. She illustrated with examples how naming few states doesn't imply neglect, citing Maharashtra's exclusion despite a major port project and significant allocated funds.

Continuing her defense, Sitharaman challenged the opposition, particularly the Congress, to show their previous budgets named every state. She argued all states receive benefits and funding through various government programs and international aids. Meanwhile, opposition MPs, including key leaders Rahul and Sonia Gandhi, held protests accusing the budget of favoritism.

(With inputs from agencies.)