Sat Feb 01 21:46:00 IST 2025: ## Tharoor Slams Budget 2025 as “Underwhelming,” Targeting Only Delhi and Bihar Voters

**NEW DELHI** – Congress MP Shashi Tharoor has criticized the Union Budget 2025, calling it underwhelming and accusing the government of prioritizing voters in Delhi and Bihar. While acknowledging income tax cuts for individuals earning up to ₹12 lakh annually, Tharoor argued that the benefits are narrowly focused and fail to address larger economic concerns.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced significant income tax reductions, aiming to stimulate consumption. However, Tharoor expressed skepticism, stating that the government’s track record suggests announcements often outweigh implementation. He cautioned that the details of the new tax bill, to be introduced next week, could significantly alter the actual benefits.

Tharoor highlighted the budget’s shortcomings in addressing unemployment, a pressing issue for India’s youth and educated workforce. He argued that the budget lacks measures to generate jobs and stimulate broader economic growth. He also criticized the lack of attention paid to inflation, suggesting that the real income of even those receiving tax relief is declining.

Furthermore, Tharoor criticized the budget’s perceived lack of generosity towards Kerala, particularly in the aftermath of last year’s devastating landslide. He pointed out the absence of central assistance for the victims, contrasting this with the significant allocations for Bihar, a poll-bound state. This preferential treatment, he claimed, has drawn opposition ire, with accusations of the central government favoring NDA ally Nitish Kumar’s Bihar while neglecting other states.

Tharoor concluded by emphasizing the absence of job creation strategies within the budget, questioning the government’s economic vision beyond appeasing voters in specific regions. He also expressed concern about the potential impact of US tariffs on Indian exports.

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