The Communist Party of India (CPI) has sharply criticised the Union Budget 2026-27, accusing the Central government of neglecting Kerala’s development priorities and failing to address the state’s long-standing demands. CPI state secretary Binoy Viswam described the budget as disappointing for Kerala, asserting that it “deceived” the state by ignoring critical infrastructure proposals and economic needs.
In a press statement, Viswam highlighted that Kerala’s finance department had submitted a comprehensive list of proposals ahead of the budget consultations, seeking funding for major projects such as a special financial package for the Vizhinjam International Seaport, high-speed rail connectivity, and enhanced allocations for paddy storage infrastructure. None of these core requests were included in the final budget, he said, deepening concerns about the Centre’s commitment to equitable development.
The CPI also noted the absence of approval for an AIIMS hospital in Kerala, a project repeatedly promised in previous years but left out again in this budget cycle. Viswam underscored that without such transformative projects and targeted funding, Kerala’s youth and job-seekers are left without clear solutions to rising unemployment — an issue the Finance Minister’s “Youth Power Budget” slogan failed to address, in his view.
Critics from across the political spectrum in Kerala echoed similar sentiments. State leaders argued that the exclusion of Kerala from major announcements, such as high-speed rail corridors and special packages for critical infrastructure, signals a continuation of fiscal neglect and a disregard for the state’s socio-economic challenges.
Against this backdrop, the CPI called for heightened public awareness and mobilisation, underscoring the budget’s perceived bias in favour of other regions and corporate interests, while leaving Kerala’s pressing demands largely unaddressed.
The strong reaction illustrates growing frustration within Kerala’s political landscape over the Centre’s fiscal priorities and the impact on the state’s development trajectory.
News as reported
