Congress Critiques Punjab Budget for Lack of Vision and Substance
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Synopsis
On March 26, Punjab Congress leader Amarinder Singh Raja Warring criticized the AAP government's budget, claiming it lacks substance and vision. He questioned the fulfillment of promises made to women and highlighted concerns over state debt and infrastructure funding.
Key Takeaways
- Budget criticized for lack of substance
- Promises to women unfulfilled
- State debt at Rs 3 lakh crore
- No funds for infrastructure development
- Old Pension Scheme not implemented
Chandigarh, March 26 (NationPress) The Punjab Congress president Amarinder Singh Raja Warring criticized the state Budget unveiled by the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government, labeling it as lacking both substance and vision.
He remarked, “This budget reflects a sense of defeat, suggesting that the AAP has come to terms with its impending downfall and has chosen to deny any relief to the citizens of Punjab.”
Warring questioned the government regarding its “repeated promise” of a monthly cash aid of Rs 1,000 to women in the state.
He stressed that the government should have been more committed to supporting women by initiating the promised monthly cash assistance.
Warring expressed skepticism about the budget, noting that the Punjab government has already drained its resources, with state debt soaring to around Rs 3 lakh crore, while the budget stands at about Rs 2.36 lakh crore.
“In reality, there is not a single rupee set aside for infrastructure development in the state,” he stated, asserting that the government has largely rehashed existing schemes and central initiatives.
“A significant portion of the funds earmarked for various departments will primarily be directed towards salaries. Even so, there’s no assurance of timely salary disbursements,” he added.
He accused the AAP of engaging in “pre-emptive revenge” against the Punjab populace, suggesting that the party has accepted its fate and believes there is no necessity to offer any relief in this, its fourth budget, when expectations were for a budget that would be favorable to the people.
Warring also mentioned the Old Pension Scheme (OPS), which the government had previously announced but has yet to put into action.
He dismissed the drug addicts’ census as a mere publicity stunt, labeling it a cruel joke. “Are you intending to showcase them and humiliate them?” he questioned, highlighting that the health department already possesses records of drug addicts in the state.
