The Union Budget 2024 has elicited a wide range of reactions from national leaders, reflecting diverse perspectives on its provisions and priorities. While some praised the Budget for its futuristic vision and targeted support for various states, others criticized it for neglecting key regions and issues. Here are the initial responses from prominent political figures across the country.
Kangana Ranaut Expresses Happiness Over Budget
Actor turned politician and Mandi MP Kangana Ranaut expressed her satisfaction with the Budget, particularly noting the relief fund promised to Himachal Pradesh. Speaking to ANI, she said, “We are very happy with the Budget.”
Akhilesh Yadav Criticizes Budget for Ignoring Uttar Pradesh
Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav criticized the Union Budget, claiming it ignored the interests of the youth and farmers. He pointed out that while several development measures were announced for Bihar and Andhra Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh was left out. Yadav highlighted the lack of mandis for farmers and questioned why the proposed highway from Buxar in Bihar did not include an extension to the Purvanchal Expressway. He also criticized the focus on short-term employment measures like internships, asking, “Will reservation be given for these short-term employment initiatives?”
Jyotiraditya Scindia Praises ‘Futuristic Budget’
Lok Sabha MP Jyotiraditya Scindia praised the Union Budget 2024, describing it as a “futuristic budget” that would help India achieve its goal of becoming self-reliant.
Giriraj Singh Hails Bihar’s ‘Super Package’
Union Minister Giriraj Singh praised the Budget as balanced and comprehensive, focusing on women, youth, farmers, and the poor. He also highlighted the “super package” given to Bihar, reflecting the central government’s commitment to the state’s development.
Amit Shah Highlights Budget’s Positive Impact
Union Home Minister Amit Shah described the Budget as a reflection of Bharat’s newfound sense of purpose, hope, and optimism under the Modi government. He emphasized how the Budget fortifies these sentiments.
P. Chidambaram Acknowledges Congress’s Influence
Senior Congress leader P. Chidambaram remarked that he was pleased to see elements from the Congress’s 2024 manifesto in the Budget. He specifically noted the abolition of the Angel Tax, a longstanding demand of the Congress. “I am glad that the Finance Minister has read the Congress 2024 manifesto after the Lok Sabha poll results,” he said.
Rabri Devi Criticizes Allocation for Bihar
Former Bihar Chief Minister and RJD leader Rabri Devi criticized the Rs 26,000 crore allocation for Bihar, calling it a “jhunjhuna.” She pointed out the ongoing issues in the state, such as displacement from floods, unemployment, and persistent farmer issues. Devi argued that the allocated funds were insufficient to address these challenges.
Nara Lokesh Welcomes Support for Andhra Pradesh
Andhra Pradesh Minister Nara Lokesh welcomed the Budget’s proposals for supporting key projects in the state, including the Amaravati and Polavaram Irrigation projects. He thanked the central government for allocating Rs 15,000 crore, stating, “On behalf of the people of the state, we express our gratitude to the NDA government for committing to the reconstruction of Andhra Pradesh.”
Jairam Ramesh Accuses Government of Copying Congress
Congress leader Jairam Ramesh accused the government of copying ideas from the INC’s Nyay Patra 2024. He claimed that the Budget’s internship program was modeled on the INC’s proposed Apprenticeship Program. Ramesh criticized the scheme for its arbitrary targets, suggesting it was designed to grab headlines rather than provide a guaranteed program for diploma holders and graduates.
The reactions from various political leaders reflect a mix of approval, criticism, and cautious optimism, highlighting the diverse perspectives on the Union Budget 2024.
