Opposition Criticizes 2024-25 Budget as Anti-Poor and Anti-Federal

Opposition members criticized the 2024-25 Budget in the Rajya Sabha, calling it anti-federal and anti-poor. Trinamool Congress member Jawhar Sircar and AITC member Sagarika Ghosh highlighted issues of inequality, unemployment, and lack of support for key schemes. They demanded transparency and a white paper on the PLI scheme.

Opposition members on Wednesday lambasted the 2024-25 Budget in the Rajya Sabha, labeling it as 'anti-federal' and 'anti-poor'. They demanded a white paper on the Production Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme for clarity on its allocations.

Trinamool Congress member Jawhar Sircar voiced 'deep sorrow' over what he termed a 'wasted opportunity' for a budget that serves plutocracy. Referring to Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman's speech, he criticized her priorities, particularly the alleged focus on precious metals. Sircar also claimed that the removal of Angel Tax caters to wealthy investors and excludes the common man.

AITC member Sagarika Ghosh pointed out the stark inequalities that persist in India, citing data from the World Inequality Lab. She stressed that the budget should address real issues facing Indians, particularly economic disparities and unemployment. Ghosh demanded transparent, time-bound audits of all central schemes across states, noting an unequal focus in allocations.