Mixed Reactions to Union Budget 2026: Hope, Disappointment, and Indifference
Voices ranging from hope and optimism to despair and disappointment, and even indifference, have emerged as common people share their takes on the Union Budget 2026. The budget has sparked a wide spectrum of emotions among citizens, reflecting the diverse impacts of fiscal policies on everyday lives.
Disappointment Over Price Hikes and Unmet Expectations
Dhanraj Ahirwar, a provision store owner, expressed his frustration, stating that the only thing he knows about the budget is that cigarette and gutkha prices have gone up quite substantially. This price increase has directly affected his business and personal expenses, leading to a sense of disillusionment.
Gyandev Mishra, a builder, described the budget as like any regular budget. He noted that the government, with measures like big exemptions from income tax in the previous budget and exemptions in GST recently, had raised people's expectations. When these expectations were not met in the current budget, it resulted in widespread disappointment. Mishra also pointed out that this sentiment contributed to the Sensex falling after the budget presentation, highlighting the economic repercussions of unmet fiscal hopes.
Optimism and Neutral Views from Some Quarters
In contrast, Anupam Agarwal, a wholesale grain merchant, offered a more positive perspective. He said that the budget is good for the common man as it has nothing which hurts their interests in any manner. This view suggests that for some, the budget's neutrality or lack of negative impacts is seen as a benefit, providing a sense of stability in uncertain economic times.
Criticism Over Lack of Focus on Women and Children
Prerna Sharma, a housewife, expressed disappointment over the budget, emphasizing that it has nothing for women and children. She described it as more of a bookish exercise with a lot of promises, which perhaps don't hold that much meaning for the common man. This criticism underscores concerns about the budget's relevance and effectiveness in addressing specific societal needs, particularly for vulnerable groups.
Broader Implications and Public Sentiment
The mixed reactions highlight the complex nature of budget announcements and their perceived effects on different segments of society. From price hikes affecting small businesses to unmet expectations leading to market downturns, the budget has stirred a range of emotions. While some see it as benign or even beneficial, others feel left out or disappointed, calling for more targeted and meaningful fiscal measures in the future.
