Entrepreneur and former Shark Tank India judge Ashneer Grover delivered a scathing critique of the Union Budget 2026, labeling it a "total time waste" in a social media post that rapidly gained traction online. His blunt reaction sparked widespread discussion and debate across digital platforms.
Grover's Sharp Comparison to Shark Tank
Reacting on X shortly after Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the Union Budget 2026 in Parliament on Sunday, Grover drew a direct parallel to his television persona. He remarked that the budget reminded him of a sharp on-air rebuke he once delivered to a startup pitcher on Shark Tank India.
"This budget reminded of my rebuke on Shark Tank to one of the pitchers: 'Bilkul time waste kiya aapne – apna bhi aur humara bhi!'" Grover wrote in his post. This comparison highlighted his perception of the budget as unproductive and lacking in substantive impact.
Online Echoes of Criticism
Grover's remark resonated with numerous users online, many of whom echoed his criticism and described the Budget as underwhelming. One user suggested, "Ashneer bhai ko ek baar mauka budget prepare karne ka.. He will nail it." Another user commented, "At least Shark Tank pitches end in 10 minutes. This one cost us a year." A third user added, "Full Delhi vibe. Budget pitch sunke lag raha hai Ashneer bol raha ho 'Aap ka passion achha hai, par numbers nahi hain. Time waste.'"
Key Proposals in Budget 2026
Presenting her ninth consecutive Budget, Sitharaman emphasized the government's continued push towards Aatmanirbhar Bharat. She outlined measures aimed at boosting domestic manufacturing, infrastructure development, and long-term economic growth.
Among the key announcements was a proposal to reduce the Tax Collected at Source (TCS) rate from 5% to 2% on education and medical education expenses under the Liberalised Remittance Scheme. The Finance Minister also announced plans to scale up manufacturing across seven priority sectors and reiterated the government's focus on infrastructure-led growth.
However, one of the most discussed aspects of Budget 2026 was the decision to keep income tax slabs unchanged. This move drew criticism from sections of the middle class who were expecting relief amid rising living costs, adding to the contentious nature of the budget.
Divided Political and Industry Reactions
Reactions to the Budget were sharply divided across political and business circles. Congress MP Shashi Tharoor stated that the Budget offered little for the middle and lower-middle classes. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee accused the Centre of attempting to "destroy the economic structure of the country."
In contrast, industry voices struck a more positive note. Fortis Healthcare Managing Director and CEO Dr. Ashutosh Raghuvanshi said the Budget sent a "strong and timely signal" that healthcare remains central to India's growth strategy. Saurabh Agarwal, tax partner at EY India, noted that Budget 2026 marked a shift towards making India a global manufacturing hub, citing initiatives such as ISM 2.0 and enhanced support for semiconductors, bio-pharma, and heavy construction machinery.
Grover's Impact on Public Discourse
As debate continues to swirl around the Union Budget 2026, Grover's remark has added a sharp, headline-grabbing voice to the broader public conversation about the government's economic roadmap. His candid criticism, rooted in his entrepreneurial background and television fame, has amplified discussions on fiscal policy and its real-world implications.
The mixed reactions from various stakeholders underscore the complexity of budget assessments, balancing political critiques with industry optimism. Grover's viral post serves as a reminder of the intense scrutiny and high expectations that accompany such significant economic announcements in India.
