Kerala Chief Minister Slams Union Budget as "Political Document"

New Delhi- Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan sharply criticized the Union Budget on Saturday, describing it as a political document that undermines federalism and appears to be crafted with upcoming Assembly elections in mind. He warned that the budget would likely increase inflation, unemployment, and poverty, while expressing concern over the lack of serious consideration given to crucial sectors like agriculture and industry, along with continued cuts to agricultural subsidies and the absence of MGNREGA funding.

The Chief Minister expressed particular disappointment with the budget's treatment of Kerala's specific requests. He noted that the state's proposals for a special package worth Rs 24,000 crore, support for the Vizhinjam Port, a special Wayanad landslide package, and various infrastructure projects including an AIIMS centre and railway coach factory were all overlooked. Out of the Rs 25 lakh crores allocated for states, Kerala received less than Rs 40,000 crores, which Vijayan argued was insufficient.

Vijayan further contended that Kerala was being unfairly penalized for its achievements in education and other sectors, with the central government dismissing the state's need for additional support based on its existing progress. He highlighted ongoing concerns about minimum support prices for rubber, paddy, and coconut, which remained unaddressed while rubber imports continued. The Chief Minister concluded by stating that Kerala's marginalization in the budget was unacceptable to the state.