Guwahati: Assam Congress leader Ripun Bora has sharply criticized the 2024-25 state budget presented by the BJP government, calling it an “illusory proposal” that fails to provide adequate financial allocation for critical sectors.
Addressing the media at Guwahati’s Rajiv Bhawan on January 22, Bora raised concerns about the heavy reliance on funds and loans from the Centre, with nearly Rs 97,444 crore of the total expenditure of Rs 1,43,606 crore expected to come from external sources.
Bora questioned the financial autonomy of the state, arguing that the budget’s dependence on central assistance casts doubt on Assam’s ability to manage its own finances effectively. He pointed to several key sectors, including drinking water supply, housing, social justice, and indigenous tribal affairs, where he claimed the budget showed significant shortfalls.
Highlighting the issue of fund underutilization, Bora noted that sectors such as drinking water, housing, and social justice saw a considerable amount of allocated funds left unspent, with some areas experiencing as much as 51% of funds remaining unused.
In addition to the financial concerns, Bora criticized the lack of tangible progress on important development promises, including the promotion of small tea growers, farm mechanization, and digital transformation. According to Bora, the budget failed to deliver on these crucial initiatives and lacked the necessary actions to address the pressing needs of the people of Assam.
The Congress leader’s remarks reflect growing discontent over the state’s budgeting priorities and the perceived inefficiency in utilizing allocated funds to foster sustainable development.
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