Nirmala Sitharaman Defends Budget Amidst Opposition Critique

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman countered criticisms from the Congress and highlighted the alleged fiscal mismanagement in Kerala and West Bengal. She defended the BJP-led government's actions and emphasized the benefits of the Budget for 2025-26, mentioning increased support to Kerala and tax relief measures for the middle class.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman addressed criticisms from opposition parties, particularly targeting the Congress, over the 2025-26 Budget in her remarks in the Rajya Sabha. She alleged that opposition-controlled states like Kerala and West Bengal are facing fiscal issues due to their own governance failures.

Sitharaman pointed out the benefits brought by the BJP-led government, asserting that initiatives have been reaching the common citizens contrary to opposition claims. She criticized what she described as "Tola Baazi" and "cut money" practices in West Bengal and dismissed accusations aimed at the central government regarding financial aid to Kerala.

The Finance Minister highlighted significant increases in federal support to Kerala under Prime Minister Modi's leadership, mentioning tax relief measures included in the new Budget, which aim to benefit the middle class. The passage of the Finance Bill, including amendments like the abolition of a digital tax on online ads, marked the completion of the budgetary process.

(With inputs from agencies.)