Opposition Slams Union Budget and NITI Aayog Meeting as 'Discriminatory'

Opposition leaders, including AAP MP Sandeep Pathak and key Congress figures, criticized the Union Budget 2024 and the NITI Aayog meeting, calling both discriminatory. Various state leaders announced their intention to boycott the meeting, alleging that the government ignores opposition concerns and constitutional principles.

Strong criticism emerged following the NITI Aayog meeting arranged by the Union Government, as some opposition-ruled states boycotted it. AAP MP Sandeep Pathak stated that such meetings are futile since opposition concerns remain unheard. Tamil Nadu CM MK Stalin and Karnataka CM Siddaramiah voiced dissatisfaction with the budget, alleging it ignored their issues.

Pathak argued that despite MPs attending these meetings, discussions rarely yield substantial outcomes. 'The discussions lead nowhere,' he stated, criticizing the government's vision reflected in the budget. 'If the government has a non-cooperative approach, they must be told they are in the wrong,' Pathak told ANI.

Congress General Secretary KC Venugopal also condemned the Union Budget 2024 as discriminatory, announcing that INC Chief Ministers would boycott the NITI Aayog meeting. Taking to platform X, he described the budget as 'dangerous' and against federalism. INDIA bloc leaders protested in Parliament, with slogans against the budget, claiming it to be unfair and unprincipled. Rahul Gandhi labeled it a 'Kursi Bachao Budget,' alleging it contains hollow promises.

(With inputs from agencies.)