Delhi Chief Minister Applauds Union Budget as 'Forward-Looking' Amid Opposition Criticism
Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has warmly welcomed the Union Budget 2026-27, describing it as a "forward-looking" and "people-centric" financial plan. Despite the budgetary allocation for Delhi remaining unchanged at Rs 1,348 crore, Gupta praised the Centre's announcements, highlighting their potential to drive inclusive growth.
CM Gupta's Positive Assessment of Budget Priorities
According to Gupta, the Budget reflects the "strong and visionary leadership" of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and is anchored around three key priorities:
- Accelerating economic growth through higher investment, industry, and employment generation.
- Fulfilling citizens' aspirations by making life simpler, safer, and more convenient.
- Ensuring the benefits of development reach all sections of society, aligning with the vision of 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas'.
Gupta emphasized that the Budget has been designed with special emphasis on farmers, youth, women, and the underprivileged, stating, "It has something for every segment, especially employment generation for youth, cultural heritage conservation and development, sports, and rebates for availing education and health services in foreign countries."
Specific Highlights and Infrastructure Boost
The Chief Minister pointed out several specific measures in the Budget that she believes will benefit Delhi and the nation:
- Disaster Management Grants: Gupta expressed high hopes for Delhi regarding grants provided to cities for disaster management, expecting them to enhance urban resilience.
- Capital Expenditure Support: She described the allocation of Rs 1.4 lakh crore for capital expenditure support to states as a "positive and far-sighted step" that will provide fresh momentum to development.
- Delhi–Varanasi High-Speed Rail Corridor: Gupta called this announcement "historic," noting it will enhance connectivity, reduce travel time, boost tourism, generate employment, and open new opportunities for trade and industry, thereby strengthening Delhi's role as a key hub of national development.
Delhi Legislative Assembly Speaker Vijender Gupta also welcomed the record public capital expenditure of Rs 12.2 lakh crore on infrastructure, stating it will act as a strong engine of growth by creating robust physical and digital foundations for a competitive economy.
Opposition Leaders Voice Strong Criticism
In contrast, opposition leaders have sharply criticized the Budget for its perceived shortcomings. Former Chief Minister and Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) chief Arvind Kejriwal argued that the Budget offers no blueprint for employment generation, saying, "The biggest problems facing the country are unemployment and inflation, but today's Budget shows no roadmap for job creation. This Budget will only increase inflation and unemployment."
Delhi Pradesh Congress Committee president Devender Yadav termed the Budget "insensitive," alleging it fails to address health concerns related to pollution in the Capital. He stated, "People of Delhi are disappointed. There is nothing new for the city. No concrete funds have been allocated for Yamuna cleaning, sewerage, or pollution control beyond earlier provisions."
Broader Implications and Political Divide
The divergent reactions underscore a significant political divide in Delhi's response to the Union Budget. While the ruling party highlights its potential for economic growth and infrastructure development, the opposition focuses on the lack of targeted measures for critical issues like job creation and environmental management.
Gupta's praise for the Budget's emphasis on domestic manufacturing and self-reliance, along with its focus on various societal segments, positions it as a comprehensive plan. However, the criticism from Kejriwal and Yadav points to ongoing concerns about unemployment and pollution, which remain pressing challenges for Delhi's residents.
As the debate continues, the implementation of the Budget's provisions will be closely watched to see if it delivers on its promises of inclusive growth and addresses the opposition's criticisms effectively.
