Kharge targets BJP for inflation, GST ahead of union budget

New Delhi [India], January 7 (ANI): Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge on Tuesday slammed the Bharatiya Janata Party for inflation, and “senseless” rates of Goods and Services Tax (GST) ahead of the union budget.

Kharge, taking to X, came heavily down on BJP raising concern over the increasing prices of foods, medicines and everyday essentials. He questioned the BJP over their plans to tackle “backbreaking” inflation.

“Is there any plan to increase public savings in the budget? Or will you continue to trouble the public with backbreaking inflation? Over the past 6 months, everyday things have seen a huge jump, Essential medicines, oil, tea, coffee, biscuits, soap, etc… Everything’s price has become a problem for the people!” Kharge wrote on X.

He also targeted the BJP over GST, saying that the people are troubled by “senseless rates.”

“Every person is troubled by the senseless rates and tax burden of GST, Consumption fell, whole India is worried about economic slowdown!” he wrote.

Furthermore, Kharge raised questioned the point of Pre-Budget Consultations, held by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, if they “do not intend to discuss how inflation will be reduced?”

He falleged that BJP’s job is to “loot” the public and “benefit its billionaire friends.”

“BJP’s job is to loot the public and benefit its billionaire friends, In the coming elections, the awakened public will teach a lesson to the BJP and will give such a result,” Kharge wrote on X.

Earlier on Monday, Nirmala Sitharaman chaired the eighth Pre-Budget Consultation meeting with stakeholders and representatives from trade unions

The consultations focused on understanding the perspectives of trade unions regarding the upcoming budget. This interaction is part of the government’s annual pre-budget tradition, aimed at gathering inputs from diverse sectors to shape policies and allocate resources effectively.

The Union Budget 2025-26, expected to be presented in February, is anticipated to address key economic challenges and promote growth.

The Finance Ministry conducts several pre-budget consultation meetings annually with experts, industry leaders, economists, and state officials.