In a scathing critique, former Nagaland minister K Therie has condemned the current year’s Union Budget, describing it as the most skewed and unjust in history. Therie implied that the budget might have been prepared under coercive circumstances, stating it was “perhaps prepared under point-blank gunpoint.”
In a press release, Therie on Sunday argued that justice and equality have been severely compromised, indicating that the budget does not fairly distribute resources or opportunities across different regions or populations.
Therie expressed doubts about the authenticity and feasibility of promises made in the budget, such as financial support to Bihar and Andhra Pradesh, and infrastructure projects like National Highway roads. He labeled these promises as a “paper tiger,” suggesting they are grandiose but lack real substance.
He criticized the implementation of Centrally Sponsored Schemes (CSSs), which he believes will be carried out only at the Central Government’s discretion, leading to delays and inefficiencies. Therie was also skeptical about loans against state projects, warning that these loans will be a burden on future generations. He implied that even if the loans were secured, the process would be slow, and repayment would be a significant challenge.
Therie called on both ruling and opposition members to protect the Constitution, arguing that the government should not operate under pressure or fear. He detailed various taxes, cesses, and surcharges paid by the public, intended for welfare and economic growth, but expressed doubt that these funds are being used judiciously and proportionately.
Therie voiced support for the observations of Kapil Sibal, who has raised concerns about the data reflecting the nation’s current state. He called for Parliament to heed these observations. Therie asserted that the budget violates the spirit of the Constitution, failing to uphold values of fairness, justice, and equitable resource distribution. He expressed hope that the wisdom of the Members of Parliament will prevail, urging them to address and rectify the issues presented by the budget.