BJP Criticizes Congress for Opposition to Union Budget

The BJP criticized Congress and opposition parties for their negative reaction towards the Union Budget 2024-25, asserting that it displays political frustration and an opposing attitude towards backward states needing development. The budget includes significant allocations to Andhra Pradesh and Bihar, governed by BJP allies, JD(U) and TDP.

The BJP on Wednesday expressed strong disapproval of the Congress and other opposition parties for their critical stance on the Union Budget, interpreting it as a sign of political frustration and a negative attitude towards underdeveloped states requiring special focus and assistance for development.

This response from the BJP follows accusations from Congress and others in the opposition INDIA bloc, who argue that the budget is 'discriminatory' towards states governed by opposition parties. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman's budgetary announcements for Andhra Pradesh and Bihar spurred these criticisms.

The JD(U) and the TDP, ruling Bihar and Andhra Pradesh respectively, are key members of the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) at the Center.

Highlighting opposition's negativity, BJP's former Rajya Sabha MP GVL Narasimha Rao claimed the budget presented by Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government has been well-received nationwide. He argued that opposition parties are responding with 'immature and negative' reactions.

'The entire nation views this as a progressive, pro-people, pro-poor, pro-farmer, and pro-employment budget. It envisions a 'Viksit Bharat,' he stated during a press conference at the BJP headquarters.

With an overall expenditure of more than Rs 48 lakh crore, the Union Budget 2024-25 prioritizes every societal section and state. Special attention is given to underdeveloped states, especially in the eastern region, for their advancement.

Narasimha Rao noted allocations aimed at addressing long-standing neglect in states like Bihar and Andhra Pradesh, implying that the opposition's resistance indicates a political motive rather than genuine concern.

'Andhra Pradesh notably requires special financial aid due to the impacts of its division, orchestrated by the Congress,' he added.

Rao reminded that Congress, now criticizing the budget, had promised special category state status for Andhra Pradesh in its election manifesto, a promise they’ve failed to keep.

'These empty promises from Congress are rooted in their betrayal of the Andhra Pradesh population, evident from their current 1% vote share there,' explained the BJP MP. 'If Rahul Gandhi fails to learn from this significant electoral defeat, the people of Andhra Pradesh will never forgive him,' he concluded.