New Delhi: Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Arvind Kejriwal criticized the BJP-led Central government regarding the Union Budget for 2025. He claimed that the government only made changes to the income tax regime after receiving fewer seats in the Lok Sabha. Kejriwal suggested that following a potential defeat in Delhi, the government would likely reduce GST rates on all goods.
He accused the Modi administration of neglecting the needs of ordinary citizens over the past decade, instead favoring wealthy associates. Kejriwal pointed out that the government announced a tax relief of Rs 12 lakh right after the election results hinted at a reduced mandate, and he predicted similar fiscal concessions if the AAP wins in Delhi.
In the Union Budget presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, significant benefits were allocated to the salaried class, stating no income tax would apply to an average monthly income up to Rs 12.75 lakh. The budget focused on enhancing four key areas for development: agriculture, MSMEs (micro, small, and medium enterprises), investment, and exports.
Sitharaman emphasized that taxpayers earning up to Rs 12 lakh would not owe any income tax due to the tax rebate and slab rate reductions, providing substantial relief, particularly to the middle class. However, opposition parties, including Congress, criticized the budget for not addressing unemployment issues and accused the government of undermining the MGNREGA program.