Sun Feb 02 17:43:20 UTC 2025: ## Puducherry CPI(M) Condemns Union Budget 2025-26 as a “Betrayal”
**Puducherry, February 2, 2025** – The Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPI(M)] in Puducherry has strongly criticized the Union Budget 2025-26, calling it a “betrayal” of the people. The party claims the budget fails to address the territory’s pressing issues, despite pre-election promises of significant improvements under a “double-engine” government (BJP at the Centre and in Puducherry).
In a statement released today, CPI(M) State Secretary S. Ramachandran highlighted the budget’s lack of provisions for unemployment, industrial slowdown, and the welfare of farmers, fishermen, and informal workers. He criticized the absence of funds for infrastructure development in Puducherry city, grappling with severe traffic congestion, and the lack of initiatives to modernize and reopen sugar mills or the technology park. The party noted that “Puducherry” was not even mentioned in the Finance Minister’s budget speech.
The CPI(M) also pointed to the comparatively meager increase in central financial assistance to Puducherry – a mere Rs. 42 crore increase from Rs. 3384 crore in 2023 to Rs. 3427 crore in 2025. This, the party argues, is insufficient considering Puducherry’s larger population compared to other Union Territories and pales in comparison to allocations received by Andaman and Nicobar Islands (Rs. 6212 crore) and Chandigarh (Rs. 6187 crore).
Ramachandran further condemned the Chief Minister N. Rangasamy for praising the Union Finance Minister and Prime Minister while the budget largely ignores Puducherry’s needs. The party also criticized the delay in releasing funds for those affected by Cyclone Fengal.
The CPI(M) has announced a public campaign to condemn the budget and advocate for additional funding and the cancellation of legacy loans. They urged the public to join their efforts to address what they see as a gross oversight and injustice.
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