Is the Cong right to worry about MP's soaring debt as the Govt plans another loan?

Synopsis
The Madhya Pradesh government is poised to take on an additional loan of Rs. 4,500 crore, raising concerns from the Congress about the state's mounting debt. With total liabilities exceeding Rs 4.30 lakh crore, will the government be able to manage its financial obligations without further burdening its citizens?
Key Takeaways
- Madhya Pradesh's total debt exceeds Rs 4.30 lakh crore.
- The state is preparing to borrow an additional Rs 4,500 crore.
- Congress criticizes the BJP government for financial mismanagement.
- Concerns raised over spending on luxuries amid financial strain.
- Calls for transparency and prioritization of citizen welfare.
Bhopal, June 5 (NationPress) The Madhya Pradesh government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Mohan Yadav, is preparing to secure a loan of Rs. 4,500 crore from the Centre. In response, the Opposition Congress has voiced concerns that this new borrowing will push the state's overall debt of Rs 4.30 lakh crore beyond its annual budget of Rs. 4,21,032 crore.
The Congress party accused the BJP-led government of entrenching Madhya Pradesh in a cycle of debt without taking measures to alleviate the financial burden, while indulging in extravagant purchases such as new planes, vehicles, and renovating ministerial residences.
The criticism intensified after the Chief Minister’s government initiated the formal borrowing process for an additional Rs 4,500 crore from the Centre, marking its second loan of this fiscal year.
This new loan places the state’s total debt above Rs 4.30 lakh crore, significantly surpassing the annual budget of Rs 4,21,032 crore allocated for the current fiscal period.
As of March 31, the total debt of Madhya Pradesh stood at Rs 4,21,740 crore.
“Despite accumulating substantial loans, the BJP government has failed to provide the Minimum Support Price for crops to farmers. If this loan is intended for the benefit of farmers and the youth, where exactly is the money being allocated?” questioned veteran Congress leader and former Chief Minister Kamal Nath in a statement released on Thursday.
“While the government claims that loans are utilized for productive development programs, the reality is that these borrowings primarily fund development and welfare schemes,” he added.
“However, amidst the rising debt, the Madhya Pradesh government continues to invest in a state plane and new vehicles for ministers, as well as refurbishing government residences,” he stated.
“On July 10 of the previous year, a proposal to purchase a jet plane valued at over Rs 230 crore was approved by the Madhya Pradesh government.
“This loan is being funneled into the luxuries of the BJP government and its officials while the public suffers under the weight of inflation,” Kamal Nath emphasized further.