Odisha's Funding Cuts: Congress Questions Modi

The Congress has accused the central government of significantly reducing Odisha's funding over the years. Congress General Secretary Jairam Ramesh questioned Prime Minister Modi's treatment of the state, highlighting decreased central transfers and unfulfilled infrastructure projects. Ramesh also pointed out high railway staff vacancies and recent tragedies in the state.

The Congress on Wednesday made serious allegations against the Centre, accusing it of systematically cutting Odisha's central funding in recent years. Congress General Secretary Jairam Ramesh posed pressing questions to Prime Minister Narendra Modi right before the swearing-in ceremony of Mohan Charan Majhi as Odisha's new Chief Minister.

Ramesh emphasized that the previous administration had gradually reduced central funding for Odisha. According to CAG reports, the central transfers as a percentage of revenue receipts decreased from 57% in 2017-18 to 38% in 2021-22. He noted a consistent decline in the state's share of Union taxes and diminished grants from the Fifteenth Finance Commission.

The Congress leader highlighted the stalled Sitalapalli rail wagon factory project that has seen no progress since being sanctioned by the UPA government. He also pointed out persistent railway staff vacancies and the tragic train collision in Balasore, raising questions on the central government's responsibility.

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