New Delhi, Feb 1 (NationPress) Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge sharply criticized the Union Budget 2026-27 on Sunday, highlighting a significant absence of policy vision and a failure to address crucial socio-economic issues such as employment, manufacturing, private investment, infrastructure, and social security.

Kharge pointed out the tariff risks and the export slowdown, stating that Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman provided no solutions to the plummeting exports, trade deficit, or diminishing global competitiveness.

The Congress President remarked that the Modi-led government appears to have exhausted its ideas, stating, "#Budget2026 fails to deliver any solutions to India's numerous economic, social, and political dilemmas," criticizing the lack of structural reforms in the budget.

"This Budget presents no answers, not even catchphrases to mask the absence of policy!" he emphasized in a post on social media platform X, accusing the Union government of lacking the political will to tackle pressing issues like inflation, dwindling consumer demand, and increasing debt.

Kharge expressed concern over the disappointment felt by farmers, the middle class, and marginalized communities, stating, "Mission Mode has now transformed into 'Challenge Route'. The 'Reform Express' seldom stops at any 'Reform' Junction. The end result: No policy vision, no political will."

He raised questions over the depreciating Rupee, pointing out stagnation in FDI and a noticeable lack of investor confidence.

"FDI and wage stagnation have been overlooked. Why only minor adjustments and no structural reforms?" Kharge questioned.

The Congress President also criticized the Union government for neglecting the interests of marginalized and minority groups.

"Inequality has surpassed levels seen during the British Raj, yet the Union Budget neglects to even mention it or provide assistance to Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, Other Backward Classes, Economically Weaker Sections, and minority communities," he stated.

Kharge accused the Centre of disregarding the essence of federalism, emphasizing the lack of financial packages for struggling states.

"The Finance Commission's recommendations need further examination, but they seem inadequate in providing relief to states facing severe financial distress. Federalism has become a casualty," he noted.

Turning his attention to the Make in India initiative, he stated that the Union Budget has failed to propose any revival strategy for manufacturing, which remains stagnant at 13 percent.

He also questioned the absence of job creation and skill development strategies in the Union Budget.

"No comprehensive plan for youth employability or to enhance women's workforce participation. What has been achieved from previous internship and skill development programs?" Kharge asked.

The Congress President also lambasted the budget for ignoring the plight of the poor and middle class.

"For the poor and middle class: no relief from inflation; dwindling savings, escalating debt, and stagnant wages. Why no strategy to rejuvenate consumer demand?" he remarked.

On the topic of social security, he stated, "There was not a single meaningful announcement concerning social security and welfare. There is no mention of funding for the new law replacing MGNREGA. Why?"