Opposition attacks TVK government’s maiden budget, says key promises ignored
The opposition on Wednesday criticised the TVK government’s first budget, alleging that it relied on repackaging existing schemes instead of delivering on major election promises.
DMK president M.K. Stalin said the budget lacked fresh ideas and failed to fulfil the commitments made to voters during the Assembly election campaign.
Leader of the Opposition Udhayanidhi Stalin described the budget as a “big zero” and alleged that the allocation for the education sector had been reduced.
AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K. Palaniswami also gave the budget a “zero” rating, expressing concern over the state’s financial position. He pointed to the projected outstanding debt of Rs 10.98 lakh crore, a revenue deficit of Rs 55,775 crore and a fiscal deficit of Rs 1.21 lakh crore.
Palaniswami further alleged that the government had not implemented several key election promises, including Rs 2,500 monthly financial assistance for women, six free LPG cylinders, an enhanced old-age pension of Rs 3,000 and a complete crop loan waiver. He urged the government to present a clear plan for increasing revenue while fulfilling its commitments.