Kuldeep Sharma criticised the BJP's budget as a "game of numbers" that misleads the public.
Former Assembly Speaker Kuldeep Sharma (Photo: X)
CHANDIGARH: Former Assembly Speaker Kuldeep Sharma participated in a conclave marking the 20th anniversary of the Aaj Samaj newspaper. He stated that for the Congress party to return to power in Haryana, it must ensure the participation of all sections of society. He also added that the BJP has no political base in Punjab.
A conclave was organised at the Taj Hotel on Saturday in Chandigarh to celebrate the 20th anniversary of Aaj Samaj, a prestigious Hindi daily in North India. The event was attended by prominent personalities from politics, social work, sports, and other sectors from Haryana, Punjab, and Himachal Pradesh.
Speaking on the budget, Sharma said it is "a game of numbers," and criticised the BJP, noting that although the party claims to strive for the country's overall development by 2027, the budget only juggles figures. He argued that it is not possible to achieve a developed India through the current budget, as people are misled by numbers and wordplay. According to him, the budget imposes taxes without providing sufficient relief. He further observed that this is the first time the Chief Minister has discussed the budget with the public.
Sharma disagreed with his party's stance, noting that when the Chief Minister seeks suggestions on the budget, the opposition should participate and present its views, including criticism. He lamented the declining standard of debate since 1952, saying leaders resort to personal attacks, and politics has become dominated by accusations and counter-accusations. Sharma emphasised that when the House is not functioning and the opposition walks out frequently, public concerns cannot be properly addressed, stressing the need for balance.
On the Congress party's past and present, Sharma said that to make a comeback, the party must revisit its 2005 model, which included representation from all sections of society. He pointed out that the current reduced and unbalanced representation has led to loss of power. Discussing the 2024 assembly elections, he said that the party lacked organisational strength and financial resources compared to the BJP, and overconfidence in a few individuals contributed to defeat.
On Randeep Surjewala's statements about unbalanced ticket distribution, Sharma praised him as a young, thoughtful leader whose views should be taken seriously by the high command. Addressing vote rigging, Sharma said it is a crucial issue, highlighting that people were deliberately deprived of voting rights and fraudulent voting occurred. He praised Rahul Gandhi for raising the issue effectively. Regarding non-participation in Brijendra Singh's "Sadbhav Yatra," he said it was not an official event, but district presidents, MLAs, and MPs participated to oppose BJP policies.
Sharma also praised State President Rao Narendra for promoting party policies on vote rigging, inflation, and unemployment. He criticised the BJP for distorting the MNREGA scheme, which originally guaranteed jobs. On Chandigarh, Sharma noted that although the city was awarded to Haryana, the matter remains unresolved. He argued that Haryana should have its own capital between Kurukshetra and Karnal due to Chandigarh's congestion, pollution, and traffic issues, and suggested Chandigarh could be given to Punjab.
