The Left Democratic Front (LDF) will organise a march to Raj Bhavan on March 17 in protest against the alleged neglect faced by the State in the Budget presented by the Union government.
In a statement, LDF convener T.P. Ramakrishnan said demonstrations would be held in all the Assembly constituencies across districts, except Thiruvananthapuram.
He criticised the Union Budget for prioritising privatisation, citing the opening of the nuclear power sector to private players, increased private investment in power infrastructure, and yet another monetisation plan aimed at raising ₹10 lakh crore through the sale of government-owned assets. The Budget also allows 100% foreign direct investment in the insurance sector.
The LDF also accused the Central government of scaling back public funding in agriculture and allied sectors. The subsidy for fertilizers has declined by ₹3,400 crore. The Centre share for crop insurance has also been slashed.
Mr. Ramakrishnan also alleged that the Opposition-ruled States were being forced to bear the financial burden of many Central-sponsored schemes, potentially leading to an estimated revenue loss of ₹1 lakh crore for these States.
In contrast, he claimed those States governed by the Bharatiya Janata Party or its allies have been unduly favoured in fund allocations.
Published – March 14, 2025 10:01 pm IST
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