Opposition Raises 'Discrimination' Allegations in Union Budget Debate

Mallikarjun Kharge, Leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha, criticized the Union Budget for allegedly discriminating against opposition-ruled states. Kharge claimed Bihar and Andhra Pradesh received minimal allocations. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman refuted the allegations, listing major projects funded in various states irrespective of political affiliation.

In a heated session at the Rajya Sabha on Wednesday, Leader of Opposition Mallikarjun Kharge accused the Union Budget of discriminating against opposition-ruled states like Bihar and Andhra Pradesh. He criticized Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, calling her 'mataji' and alleging that her remarks were more about politics than economic policy. Kharge contended that while Bihar and Andhra Pradesh received some funding, other states were left out entirely.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, serene and steadfast, countered the claims, noting that many states received substantial projects and funding, whether mentioned in the budget speech or not. She provided examples such as the Rs 76,000 crore Vadhavan port project in Maharashtra to underline her point.

The controversy escalated when Kharge led the INDIA alliance parties in a walkout, terming the budget a 'kursi-bachao' document, aimed at preserving the ruling party's power rather than benefiting the states. The BJP, weakened by recent electoral losses, relies on regional parties like JD(U) in Bihar and TDP in Andhra Pradesh for support. Sitharaman insisted that the opposition's allegations were unfounded and highlighted the government's ongoing support for all states.