New Delhi [India], February 1: Reacting to Congress MP Manish Tewari’s criticism of the Union Budget, calling it “a useless ritual” akin to the President’s address, BJP MP Deepak Prakash hit back, labeling Congress leaders as “mentally bankrupt.” Prakash asserted that the Budget reflects the aspirations of 140 crore Indians, connecting directly with the lives of every citizen.
“The Budget is the symbol of the aspirations of 140 crore Indians. Every citizen is connected to it, but Congress leaders clearly show that they have no connection to the common people,” Prakash said.
Tewari had criticized the annual Budget process on Saturday, calling it “nothing more than an accounting exercise” that tracks government income and expenditure. He suggested that the government simply present its income and expenditure statement in the House, instead of making the Budget a grandstanding ritual for the Finance Minister.
“What is a Budget? It is nothing more than an accounting exercise. Over the years, it has turned into a grandstanding ritual for the Finance Minister. It is as useless a ritual as the President’s address,” Tewari posted on social media.
Congress MP Manickam Tagore also voiced concerns over India’s economic situation, alleging that the super-rich are growing wealthier while the middle class suffers. He called for a change in government policy to address the economic pain of ordinary citizens.
“We all know that India’s economy is at a different stage now. Employment numbers are going down, and urban spending has reduced. The super-rich are getting richer while the middle class suffers. We expect the government to address the pain of the people,” Tagore said.
Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, presenting her record eighth consecutive Budget in the Lok Sabha, focused on priorities like accelerating economic growth, ensuring inclusive development, supporting industries, and uplifting household sentiment. She emphasized empowering India’s growing middle class by enhancing its spending power.
Sitharaman acknowledged global geopolitical challenges but expressed confidence in India’s strong economic foundation, positioning the country as the world’s fastest-growing major economy. She added that India’s past decade of development policies and structural reforms had bolstered global confidence, and the next five years would be pivotal in achieving holistic development.
“Our economy is the fastest-growing among major global economies. Our development track record of the past decade and structural reforms have garnered global attention. Confidence in India’s potential has grown, and we see the next five years as a unique opportunity to achieve ‘Sabka Vikas’ and foster balanced growth across all regions,” she stated.