Delhi Finance Minister Atishi launched a sharp critique of the Union Budget 2024-25, accusing the central government of unfairly neglecting the capital city. In a statement following the budget presentation by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led central government, Atishi asserted that Delhi had been unjustly treated.
“Two days ago, the BJP-led central government presented the Union Budget. The Delhi government has highlighted the glaring injustice being inflicted upon both the Delhi government and the people of Delhi,” Atishi said.
The Finance Minister pointed out that despite Delhi contributing Rs 2.60 lakh crore in taxes, the allocated funds for the city’s welfare fell significantly short of expectations. “The people of Delhi paid a substantial amount in taxes and expected to receive at least five percent of this from the budget. However, what Delhi received was a profound disappointment,” she added.
Delhi Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj also voiced his discontent, criticizing the allocation of funds to only two states, Bihar and Andhra Pradesh. “The people of Delhi, who supported the BJP by voting for all seven seats, have been disregarded. Instead, the central government has provided a special package to Bihar and Andhra Pradesh, states that are crucial to the BJP’s political strategy,” Bharadwaj said. He denounced the disparity in fund allocation, accusing the central government of focusing its expenditure on only two states while neglecting the rest of the country.
In response to ongoing opposition protests over the budget’s perceived inequities, the BJP plans to launch nationwide programs to highlight the budget’s features and benefits. On the upcoming weekend, Union Ministers and national office bearers will visit key locations across the country for detailed discussions about the budget. Additionally, Members of Parliament will conduct outreach efforts in every district to address concerns and provide information about the Union Budget 2024-25.
(With ANI Inputs)
