Uttar Pradesh Political Leaders Present Divergent Views on Union Budget 2026-27
The Union Budget for the fiscal year 2026-27, presented on Sunday, has elicited sharply contrasting responses from the prominent political figures of Uttar Pradesh. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath enthusiastically endorsed the financial plan as a comprehensive roadmap towards building a developed nation, whereas Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav launched a scathing critique, labeling it a document of concealed corruption.
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath's Laudatory Assessment
In a detailed post on social media platform X, composed in Hindi, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath extended his commendations. He highlighted the presentation of the budget on the auspicious day of Maghi Purnima and the birth anniversary of Sadguru Ravidas Ji Maharaj. Adityanath credited the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the execution by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman for crafting what he termed an "inspiring blueprint for building a 'Viksit Bharat' (Developed India)."
Adityanath elaborated that this budget, which marks the third financial plan of the BJP-led NDA government in its third consecutive term, is meticulously designed to benefit all sections of society. He asserted that it would "provide opportunities to the youth, security to farmers, encouragement to entrepreneurs, relief to the middle class, and respect to the labourers."
The Chief Minister further emphasized that the budgetary provisions are poised to inject fresh momentum into several critical areas. He noted that innovation, manufacturing, and employment generation would receive a significant boost. Simultaneously, sectors such as agriculture, rural development, infrastructure, tourism, culture, and the nation's rich knowledge traditions would be substantially strengthened. This holistic approach, he stated, perfectly aligns with and advances the governing philosophy of 'Development with Heritage.'
Adityanath also pointed to the budget's focus on reinforcing the foundation of an 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' (Self-Reliant India). He mentioned the enhanced support for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), startups, and indigenous production as key steps in this direction. Expressing confidence, he concluded that through principles of social justice, inclusive development, and good governance, this visionary and welfare-oriented budget would chart a prosperous path for both present and future India. He extended his gratitude to the Prime Minister and the Finance Minister for their efforts.
Samajwadi Party Chief Akhilesh Yadav's Stinging Critique
In stark contrast, Samajwadi Party president and former Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav mounted a vigorous attack on the Union Budget. He dismissed it as a document crafted solely to benefit the BJP's associates and facilitate corrupt commissions, famously dubbing it an "invisible ledger" of the party's alleged corruption.
Taking to X, Yadav referenced the immediate reaction of the stock markets, suggesting a negative reception. "The result of the BJP's Budget is out - the stock market has crashed," he stated, adding that the real question was the extent of the decline. He reiterated his party's longstanding skepticism, asserting there was no basis to anticipate any positive outcomes from the budget under the current dispensation.
Yadav presented a critical analysis, claiming the budget exclusively serves a minuscule fraction of the population. He alleged that the Samajwadi Party views every BJP budget as a "1/20th Budget" because it purportedly caters to only 5% of the country's citizens. According to him, the document completely neglects the common man, offering no respite from the burdens of soaring inflation and failing to provide necessary tax relief, which he condemned as a form of "tax exploitation."
In a lengthy post, the SP chief contrasted what he described as multiple concessions granted for the business and leisure activities of the affluent with the empty plate of expectations for millions grappling with joblessness and unemployment. He summarily declared the Union Budget 2026-27 as a "disappointing and condemnable" exercise.
Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya's Supportive Perspective
Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya also voiced his support for the budget, aligning with the Chief Minister's positive outlook. He highlighted the budget's focus on pivotal areas such as youth and women empowerment, job creation, and the strengthening of education and healthcare infrastructure.
Maurya praised the budget's sound policies and results-oriented vision, stating it firmly propels the nation towards the ambitious goal of achieving a 'Viksit Bharat' by 2047. He noted that the budget opens up vast opportunities across a diverse spectrum of sectors, including:
- Manufacturing and infrastructure development
- Healthcare and tourism expansion
- Rural economy revitalization
- Advancements in Artificial Intelligence (AI)
- Promotion of sports and pilgrimage circuits
Maurya specifically welcomed a significant infrastructure allocation for Uttar Pradesh. He pointed out that out of the seven planned high-speed rail corridors announced in the budget, two crucial routes—Varanasi-Delhi and Varanasi-Siliguri—have been designated for the state. He expressed confidence that these projects would usher in a new era of enhanced connectivity, attract substantial investment, and accelerate overall development in Uttar Pradesh.
The divergent reactions from Uttar Pradesh's political leadership underscore the deeply polarized nature of the discourse surrounding the Union Budget 2026-27, reflecting the broader political contest in the state and the nation.
