Congress leader Rahul Gandhi on Monday strongly criticised the Union Budget for 2026 – 2027, saying it fails to address India’s pressing economic and social challenges and refuses to make necessary course corrections.
Speaking to reporters, Gandhi described the budget as “out of touch with the ground realities” and claimed that it prioritises headline figures over the concerns of ordinary citizens. According to him, issues such as unemployment, agrarian distress, rising inflation and the widening income gap remain unaddressed.
“The budget is blind to the real crisis India is facing,” Gandhi said. “It ignores the hardships of Farmers, Workers and Small businesses. Instead of providing solutions, it offers cosmetic measures that will do little to improve the lives of millions.”
The Congress leader also questioned the government’s fiscal priorities, arguing that the allocation of resources disproportionately favours corporate incentives and large projects while neglecting critical sectors like Education, Health and Rural development.
Gandhi called for a budget that is “People Centric” and ensures equitable growth across regions and communities. “India needs a course correction” He added, “and this budget does not provide it. The government must focus on policies that generate employment, reduce inflation, and support the most vulnerable.”
Political analysts say that opposition parties, including the Congress, are likely to intensify their criticism of the budget in Parliament over the coming weeks, highlighting perceived gaps between government promises and citizens’ lived experiences.
The Union Budget 2026 – 27 was presented earlier this month, outlining new taxation proposals, spending plans and development initiatives. While the government has defended it as forward looking and growth oriented, opposition leaders like Rahul Gandhi argue that it overlooks the immediate economic struggles faced by ordinary Indians.
