Congress Critiques Central Budget 2026-2027 as Disappointing for Kerala

KC Venugopal, Congress General Secretary, has expressed strong discontent with the Central Budget for 2026-2027, deeming it a significant letdown for Kerala. He criticized the government's focus on large corporations rather than the needs of the general public, particularly highlighting the absence of promised initiatives like the establishment of an AIIMS in the state. Venugopal pointed out the rising unemployment and declining living standards, urging the government to recognize the challenges faced by citizens. His remarks reflect a broader concern about the budget's effectiveness in addressing real issues affecting the populace.

By Narendra Chaudhary Feb 1, 2026, 19:22 IST

Congress Leader's Strong Criticism of the Budget

KC Venugopal, the General Secretary of Congress, has sharply criticized the Central Budget for 2026-2027, labeling it as a "severe disappointment" for Kerala. He accused the government of favoring large corporate entities over the general populace. In his response to the budget, Venugopal questioned the lack of specific announcements for Kerala, particularly the long-promised establishment of an AIIMS in the state. He expressed frustration, stating, "What has been announced for Kerala? It is a profound disappointment. For the past decade, they have been promising AIIMS for Kerala, yet this budget makes no mention of it."

Budget Lacks Focus on Citizens' Needs

Venugopal further criticized the budget's objectives, asserting that it fails to address the concerns of ordinary citizens. He remarked, "This budget is not for the common people; it is tailored for large corporate houses." Describing the budget as meaningless, he questioned how anyone could welcome it, stating, "There is nothing in it. This budget is entirely hollow." Earlier in the day, he condemned the budget as lifeless and emotionless, claiming it does not tackle the real challenges faced by ordinary Indians and offers nothing significant for Kerala.

Concerns Over Employment and Living Standards

In a post shared on X, Venugopal noted that the government's attitude continues a trend that began with the previous session's termination of the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA). He wrote, "A directionless government's lifeless, emotionless budget, which started with the ending of MGNREGA, is now moving forward with massive cuts to welfare schemes under the guise of 'financial discipline.'" He highlighted rising unemployment, declining living standards, and increasing financial pressure on the middle class as key areas where the budget has failed. Venugopal stated, "This government needs to open its eyes. People's living standards are declining daily. Unemployment is at its peak, and living conditions have never been this poor. The unstable market is severely impacting the middle class, and the welfare safety net is gradually being dismantled."