by Suman Gupta
Maharashtra, having rejected BJP’s divisive politics in the recent Lok Sabha elections, is seemingly being penalized through the Union Budget 2024, which offers minimal support for the state’s critical infrastructure projects and public services.
This budget is a retaliation against Maharashtra for its electoral choices, as the BJP government has significantly reduced fund allocations to the state, despite Maharashtra being the largest contributor to India’s GDP and tax revenue.
The budget’s allocation pattern suggests a politically motivated neglect, where Maharashtra’s crucial sectors like agriculture and industry receive insufficient funding, reflecting a punitive stance by the central government.
By ignoring Maharashtra’s pressing needs and developmental priorities, the budget appears to be a strategic move by the BJP to undermine the state’s progress as retribution for the electoral setback they faced.