Budget Battle: BJP Versus Atishi on Delhi's Funding

The BJP accused Delhi minister Atishi of misleading the public regarding budget allocations for the national capital, asserting that the city received adequate funds. In contrast, Atishi demanded additional funds from the Centre, claiming underfunding despite significant tax contributions from Delhi. The AAP insists on Delhi's rightful share.

The BJP on Sunday charged Delhi minister Atishi with spreading misinformation about budget allocations from the Centre to the national capital, asserting that sufficient funds have been provided to the city government.

Delhi BJP chief Virendra Sachdeva claimed that the city's 2023-24 budget accounted for Rs 78,800 crore, while the central government spent Rs 79,032 crore on various items in Delhi during the same period.

Atishi, who serves as Delhi's finance minister, demanded an additional Rs 10,000 crore for infrastructure, arguing that the city received 'nothing in return' for its substantial tax contributions. Meanwhile, Sachdeva highlighted the Centre's direct expenditures on key sectors in Delhi, including law enforcement, transportation, and healthcare.

The AAP dismissed Sachdeva's assertions, arguing that the central government is promoting its own schemes and denying Delhi its fair share of taxes and municipal funding.

(With inputs from agencies.)