NEW DELHI: At a press conference on Thursday, Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju criticized opposition leaders for focusing on personal attacks against Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the Union Budget debate in Parliament, rather than discussing the details of the Budget. “I want to condemn the remarks made by some opposition leaders on the Budget. The opposition did not say anything about the budget, rather they have just done politics. They have insulted the mandate of the people, which is not right for democracy. After the presentation of the first budget of the historic third term under the leadership of PM Modi, the country wants to see that the discussion on the budget takes place in a good and meaningful manner.The way the leaders of some parties commented during the budget session and the way they gave speeches, I would like to say that they have insulted the House by lowering the dignity of the budget session,” Rijiju said while addressing the media.
Rijiju underscored the Budget’s significance and termed it as a “historical budget”. He plauded the budget and remarked that the 2024-25 Union Budget lays a robust foundation for an ‘atmanirbhar’ and ‘viksit’ India by allocating ₹11.11 lakh crore for capital expenditure aimed at building world-class infrastructure. It places a special focus on eastern India, including Bihar, Jharkhand, Odisha, West Bengal, and Andhra Pradesh, as well as the Northeast, to unlock their economic potential. The Budget emphasizes job creation, particularly for women and youth, through startups, skilling, and training initiatives. It also supports farmers, tribal communities, and other marginalized groups, with unprecedented attention given to tribal issues. This comprehensive approach highlights India’s position as a “bright spot” in the global economy.
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Rijiju questioned, “If Bihar is receiving benefits from the Budget, what is the issue? This is a National Budget presented for the entire country.”
The leader of the opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi on Tuesday criticised the Union Budget 2024-25, accusing the Finance Minister of making hollow promises.
Mallikarjun Kharge also expressed his criticism on ‘X,’ tweeting, “The Modi Government’s ‘copycat budget’ fails to replicate Congress’ justice agenda effectively. The budget merely distributes half-hearted ‘rewadis’ to mislead coalition partners and ensure the NDA’s survival. It is not a budget for the nation’s progress, but rather a ‘save Modi government’ budget.”
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On July 23, during the Budget Session of Parliament, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman delivered her record seventh consecutive Union Budget for 2024-25, making significant announcements for Bihar and Andhra Pradesh, including enhancements in infrastructure and special financial support.