Opposition Leaders Launch Scathing Attack on Rajasthan Government's Third Budget
Leader of Opposition Tikaram Jully has delivered a blistering critique of the Bhajan Lal government's third Budget, labeling it as "dull, directionless, and misleading." Jully emphasized that the numerous announcements made during the budget presentation lack clear financial provisions, raising serious doubts about how these schemes will be implemented without allocated funds.
Questioning Rajasthan's Financial Health and Debt Burden
Jully expressed deep concern over the state's financial condition, stating, "The government has pushed Rajasthan into heavy debt. The FRBM limit is 37%, and debt has reached 36.8%. The amount of debt taken in the last three budgets exceeds what was borrowed over the past 50 years." This alarming comparison underscores the rapid accumulation of debt under the current administration.
Criticism of Routine Announcements and Credit Claims
The Opposition leader pointed out that nearly 70–75% of the Budget announcements are routine, covering areas such as social security and drinking water. He specifically challenged the government's claims regarding the Jal Jeevan Mission, noting that while the administration boasts of providing 14 lakh connections, more than 10 lakh were actually completed during the previous Congress government's tenure. "The ruling party is creating confusion by taking credit for past achievements," Jully asserted.
Unfulfilled Promises and Implementation Failures
Jully highlighted significant implementation gaps, revealing that only 30% of last year's Budget announcements were completed, with work on another 30% not even beginning. He cited the Pachpadra refinery project as a prime example, which was promised to start in August but shows no visible progress as February approaches. "The promises made are still pending," he lamented.
Shortfalls in Education and Healthcare Allocations
The Budget also faced criticism for inadequate allocations to critical sectors. Jully noted that while more than 41,000 schools are in dilapidated condition, the budget provides for repairs of only 2,500. In the health sector, he pointed out that payments under the Chiranjeevi scheme are stalled, causing many hospitals to withdraw from it.
Congress President Echoes Concerns Over Development Funds
State Congress president Govind Singh Dotasra joined the criticism, stating that the Budget failed to allocate funds for any meaningful development. He referenced previous Congress warnings about the BJP government's mismanagement of state land and the industrial land bank, which he claims have now been proven true. Dotasra questioned the government's claims of approving land allocation for eight industries per day, asking, "The Budget is silent on how many industries were actually established, how much investment was attracted under the ‘Rising Rajasthan' initiative, and how many jobs were created."
The combined opposition critique paints a picture of a budget lacking in substance, transparency, and effective financial planning, with leaders demanding accountability and clearer pathways for implementation.
