Union Budget 2025 is ‘Anti-Federal,’ Alleges BJD MP Sasmit Patra

By A Staff Reporter

Biju Janata Dal (BJD) MP Sasmit Patra has strongly criticized the Union Budget 2025, alleging that the central government has ignored the principles of federalism in fund allocation. Patra expressed concerns over reduced financial support for states, particularly Odisha, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, and Andhra Pradesh.

"I believe very strongly that the budget in this government is extremely anti-federal. A lot of programmes and schemes belonging to states like Odisha, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, and Andhra Pradesh seem to have been cut down. There is a strong sense that the need for strengthening the federal structure has been given a go-bye in this budget. The Union government should rethink its strategy and policy towards fund allocation," said Patra.

His remarks come amid growing concerns from regional parties about centralization of financial resources and a perceived decline in state autonomy. Several opposition leaders have raised similar issues, arguing that the budget prioritizes central schemes over state-specific programs, leading to an imbalance in development funding.