Kerala Finance Minister Criticizes Union Budget 2024-25 as 'Political Exercise'

Kerala Finance Minister K N Balagopal criticized the Union Budget 2024-25 as a political maneuver aimed at saving the NDA government. He described it as anti-people and neglectful of state needs, including Kerala's request for special financial packages and capital investments. He expressed dissatisfaction and called for protests.

Kerala Finance Minister K N Balagopal on Tuesday criticized the Union Budget for the financial year 2024-25, labeling it a 'political exercise' aimed at bolstering the NDA coalition at the Centre.

Balagopal condemned the budget as anti-people and anti-nation, asserting it ignored the requirements of several states, including Kerala's legitimate needs.

He argued that the budget reflects the Modi government's inability to uphold cooperative federalism principles.

'Once BJP opened its account in Kerala, they closed the account of the state,' said Balagopal, voicing profound dissatisfaction with the Union budget.

Kerala had requested a special Rs 24,000 crore package in the Union Budget 2024-25, along with an urgent Rs 5,000 crore for capital investments in the Vizhinjam port and surrounding areas.

'This budget seeks to extend the NDA government's tenure and must be protested against,' Balagopal said during a press conference following the budget announcement.

(With inputs from agencies.)