Kharge Critiques Union Budget 2026-27 as Lacking Vision and Support

On February 1, 2026, Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge criticized the Union Budget for the fiscal year 2026-27, labeling it as visionless and detrimental to the interests of the Indian populace. In a statement following the budget announcement, Kharge condemned the government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi for its failure to effectively address the country’s significant economic and social challenges.

Kharge argued that the budget did not present a credible strategy to combat key issues such as unemployment, a struggling manufacturing sector, insufficient private investment, and inadequate infrastructure. He expressed particular concern over the risks posed to exports and trade, alleging that Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman neglected the ongoing decline in exports, the threats associated with tariffs, and the widening trade deficit affecting India’s participation in global markets.

Accusations of Ineffectiveness and Lack of Reform

In his remarks, Kharge stated, “The government has completely run out of ideas. This Budget does not offer a single solution to India’s economic, social or political problems.” He criticized what he perceived as a lack of substantial structural reforms and accused the government of lacking the political will to tackle pressing issues like inflation, diminishing consumer demand, and increasing national debt.

Kharge highlighted the government’s reliance on slogans, remarking that while the “Reform Express” is frequently referenced, it seldom stops for genuine reform. He noted that the budget was particularly disappointing for farmers, the middle class, and marginalized communities, questioning the government’s silence on the depreciating rupee, stagnant foreign direct investment, and declining investor confidence.

“Why only cosmetic changes? Where are the structural reforms?” he asked, emphasizing the budget’s failure to address rising inequality, which he claimed has reached levels surpassing those during the British colonial era. He pointed out the lack of meaningful support towards Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, Other Backward Classes, Economically Weaker Sections, and minority communities.

Concerns Over Federalism and Economic Growth

Kharge raised alarms over the implications for federalism, asserting that states facing severe financial pressures were not provided with the necessary relief. He commented, “The spirit of cooperative federalism has been sacrificed,” adding that the recommendations from the Finance Commission appeared to be insufficient for struggling states.

Furthermore, he criticized the government’s flagship ‘Make in India’ initiative, claiming that the budget did not do enough to stimulate manufacturing, which he noted remains stagnant at around 13 percent of GDP. The Congress leader also highlighted the absence of focus on job creation, skills development, and women’s participation in the workforce.

Kharge emphasized the struggles of the poor and middle class, stating that the budget did not alleviate issues related to inflation, increasing household debt, or stagnant wages. “There is no plan to revive consumer demand,” he remarked, underscoring the lack of provisions aimed at enhancing social security.

The Congress President concluded by stating that the budget was virtually silent on welfare initiatives, noting, “There is not a single substantial announcement on welfare or social security.” He questioned the omission of the law that replaced the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) and expressed his concerns over the apparent neglect of critical economic issues, calling for more comprehensive reforms to support those in need.