Congress Leader Amit Chavda Blasts Union Budget 2026-27 Over Drastic Fund Cuts
In a sharp critique of the Union Budget 2026-27, Gujarat Pradesh Congress Committee president Amit Chavda has voiced strong concerns over substantial financial reductions in key sectors. According to Chavda, thousands of crores of rupees have been slashed in areas critical to public welfare, including health, education, social welfare, agriculture, and both rural and urban development.
Impact on Vulnerable Populations
Chavda emphasized that these cuts disproportionately affect the most needy and marginalized communities across India. He stated, "What is disturbing is that these cuts have been made in sectors that affect the most needy people. The government is proud of the fiscal deficit of 4.4 per cent, but this figure has been achieved at the cost of people's health, education, and future." This remark underscores a perceived trade-off between fiscal management and social equity.
Economic Concerns and Budget Shortcomings
Further elaborating on the economic implications, Chavda highlighted a widespread slowdown, pointing to declining income as a key indicator. He criticized the budget for lacking concrete measures to address pressing issues such as recession, inflation, and epidemics. "The economy is continuously collapsing, the rupee is continuously devaluing. The budget lacks any concrete announcement by the government against recession, inflation, epidemic," he asserted. Additionally, Chavda noted the absence of robust plans to combat rising inflation, unemployment, economic inequality, and falling incomes.
Detailed Financial Reductions
Based on revised budget estimates for 2025-26 compared to initial projections, Chavda's statement revealed significant decreases:
- Revenue reduction by Rs 78,086 crore
- Net tax revenue decrease by Rs 1,62,748 crore
- Total expenditure cut by Rs 1,00,503 crore
- Capital expenditure slashed by a substantial Rs 1,44,376 crore
These figures illustrate the scale of financial adjustments that have raised alarms about potential impacts on public services and infrastructure development.
Criticism of BJP Government's Allocations
Chavda also targeted the BJP-led central government for reduced funding in essential schemes for the upcoming fiscal year 2026-27. He mentioned that less money has been allocated to programs such as:
- Crop insurance schemes
- Urea subsidies
- Welfare initiatives for the poor
- Grain distribution schemes
- Important defense sector projects
- LPG connections for poor families
This, according to Chavda, reflects a broader neglect of socio-economic priorities in favor of fiscal consolidation.
Call for Government Accountability
In his concluding remarks, Chavda urged the government to acknowledge the economic slowdown and implement more inclusive policies. He stressed that budget decisions should not compromise the well-being of India's most vulnerable citizens, calling for a balanced approach that addresses both fiscal health and social justice.
