New Delhi [India], March 20: The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has issued a three-line whip to all its Lok Sabha MPs, instructing them to be present in the House for the passing of the Union Budget 2025-26 on Friday.
Guillotine to Expedite Budget Approval
In a letter to its members, BJP emphasized that:
“All BJP members in Lok Sabha are hereby informed that guillotining of various demands for Grants 2025-26 will be taken up for passing in the House on Friday. All members of BJP in Lok Sabha are, therefore, requested to be positively present in the House throughout the day and support the government’s stands.”
Guillotining is a parliamentary process where certain demands for grants are passed without discussion, ensuring speedy approval of financial bills, especially when opposition parties attempt to delay proceedings.
Key Highlights of Budget 2025-26
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the Union Budget 2025-26 on February 1, focusing on economic growth, tax relief, and development initiatives.
Major Announcements:
- Tax Relief: No income tax for annual income up to ₹12.75 lakh (~ ₹1 lakh per month).
- Focus on Growth: Boost for agriculture, MSMEs, investment, and exports.
- Infrastructure Development: Expansion of airports, irrigation projects, and industrial corridors.
- ‘Viksit Bharat 2047’ Vision: Strengthening sectors for the long-term transformation of India.
PM Modi Calls Budget a “Force Multiplier”
Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised the budget, calling it a “budget of aspirations” for 140 crore Indians.
“This budget will fulfill the dreams of every Indian, opening up opportunities for the youth and accelerating our development journey.”
Opposition Criticism: ‘Bihar-Centric Budget’
The Opposition, led by Congress, accused the government of focusing disproportionately on Bihar, where Assembly elections are due later this year.
Congress MP Jairam Ramesh criticized the Budget, stating:
“Bihar appears to have got a bonanza of announcements. It is natural since elections are due there later in the year. But why has Andhra Pradesh, a key NDA ally, been cruelly ignored?”
Bihar-Specific Announcements:
- Makhana (Foxnut) Board to boost the local economy.
- New Greenfield Airports in Bihar + Patna Airport Expansion.
- Western Kosi Canal ERM Project for farmers in Mithilanchal.
- National Institute of Food Technology to promote food processing in Eastern India.
What’s Next?
With the BJP’s whip in place, the Budget 2025-26 is expected to be passed smoothly. However, debates over regional favoritism and opposition criticism are likely to continue.