Opposition MPs staged a walkout in Rajya Sabha today, protesting alleged discrimination against opposition-ruled states in the Union Budget. Leaders from the INDIA bloc, including Congress' Mallikarjun Kharge, Sonia Gandhi, and Rahul Gandhi, led the protest inside and outside Parliament. The opposition claims the budget unfairly favors BJP-ruled states, sparking heated debates and disruptions in the upper house. The walkout highlights the growing rift between the government and opposition parties, with the latter demanding greater allocations for their states. The protest marks a new low in parliamentary relations.

Former Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik has expressed disappointment over the Union Budget, citing the Centre's refusal to grant special category status to the state. Patnaik's Biju Janata Dal party had sought revision of coal royalty, which was also rejected. He noted that while Andhra Pradesh and Bihar received significant allocations, Odisha was overlooked. Patnaik criticized the BJP for reneging on its promise of special category status, made in their manifesto. The BJD supremo said Odisha would lose thousands of crores in revenue annually due to the Centre's decisions.

For the second consecutive day, the Odisha Assembly was adjourned due to opposition protests. The unrest began on Monday when Leader of Opposition Naveen Patnaik was accused of indiscipline during the Governor's address. Parliamentary Affairs Minister Mukesh Mahaling sought Patnaik's arrest, sparking further debate. Additionally, opposition members protested against an alleged assault on a staff member by the Governor's son. Speaker Surama Padhy adjourned the House until Wednesday, July 24, 2024, to restore order and facilitate a smooth proceeding.

The INDIA bloc will stage a protest at Parliament today, criticizing the Union Budget as discriminatory. Opposition leaders argue that the budget favors Bihar and Andhra Pradesh, which are governed by BJP allies, while neglecting other states. A meeting at Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge's residence saw leaders like Rahul Gandhi and Sharad Pawar express their discontent. The protest will start at 10:30 am. Additionally, Congress chief ministers will boycott the NITI Aayog meeting on July 27, citing the budget's perceived bias against opposition-ruled states.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the Union Budget 2024-25, emphasizing India's readiness for the Industry 4.0 era. She outlined key initiatives, including a package for employment, skilling, and support for the poor, women, youth, and farmers. "It is the era of Industry 4.0 and we are ready for it," said Sitharaman. She noted the budget’s aim to advance ‘Viksit Bharat’ (developed India) and announced provisions for enhancing women’s and youth opportunities. The budget also addresses MSMEs and abolishes angel tax to boost the start-up ecosystem.

Opposition INDIA bloc MPs are set to protest in Parliament over the Union Budget, which they criticize as "discriminatory." They accuse the NDA government of favoring Andhra Pradesh and Bihar, led by JD(U) and TDP allies, while neglecting other states. Congress MP Rahul Gandhi dubbed it a "Kursi Bachao Budget," suggesting it aims to appease coalition partners. Congress leaders argue the budget mimics their manifesto, with P. Chidambaram highlighting adopted proposals. Mamata Banerjee's TMC and other parties also condemned the budget, labeling it a failure that fails to address key issues like unemployment and inflation.

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman introduced the acronym 'EMPLOYMENT' as the theme for Budget 2024-25, highlighting ten key priorities: Employment, MSMEs, Productivity, Land, Opportunity, Youth, Middle Class, Energy Security, New Generation Reforms, and Technology. She defended the 12.5% long-term capital gains tax as a simplification measure. Responding to Congress MP Rahul Gandhi's 'kursi bachao' critique, Sitharaman emphasized BJP's electoral success and the government's commitment to all states, citing significant funding for Andhra Pradesh and Bihar. The budget also includes increased standard deductions and loans for higher education.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi praised the Union Budget 2024 as a boost for India’s 'Neo Middle Class,' stating it will support villages, the poor, and farmers. Social media reactions were polarized. Some applauded the budget for its focus on inclusive growth, while others criticized it as a gimmick, questioning its benefits for the tax-paying middle class. Comments like “another gimmicky budget” and “Vote maangne aao, janaab” reflect skepticism about its true impact. The budget’s focus on tribal, Dalit, and backward class empowerment also stirred debate.

The Opposition has harshly criticized Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman's Budget 2024, labeling it a "kursi bachao" (power retention) Budget. Congress MP Rahul Gandhi claimed the Budget prioritizes NDA allies, such as the Telugu Desam Party in Andhra Pradesh, over the needs of the poor and unemployed. Samajwadi Party chief Akhilesh Yadav echoed this sentiment, accusing the government of using special projects in Bihar and Andhra Pradesh to retain power. Other leaders, including Jairam Ramesh and P Chidambaram, criticized the Budget for copying Congress's ideas while failing to address key issues.

The JD(U) reminded the BJP-led NDA government of their promise for special category status for Bihar after the Centre, citing a 2012 report, ruled out the demand in Lok Sabha. Minister of State for Finance Pankaj Chaudhary stated that Bihar did not meet the criteria for special status. JD(U) sources reiterated their commitment to this demand, suggesting a special package if technical issues prevent granting the status. This demand was also supported by Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) and Rashtriya Janata Dal during an all-party meeting.