The ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Tuesday criticised the 15th Finance Commission for saying that Maharashtra’s financial status is under crisis.
In a presentation made in front of the Commission, which is on a three-day tour of the State, BJP MLA Atul Bhatkhalkar claimed that the observations of the Commission were based on incorrect facts and figures.
Comparison with UPA
“During UPA’s regime the SGDP and debit ratio (2005-07) was 25%. Comparing to the limit laid down by the Reserve Bank of India (22%), it was much higher. The BJP government’s discipline and work culture has improved the economic status of Maharashtra and brought the debit ratio to 16%,” Mr. Bhatkhalkar said.
In what could turn out to be a politically uneasy statement for the BJP, Mr. Bhatkhalkar claimed that the loan waiver scheme of ₹17,000 crore in the last fiscal year was the reason behind the State’s revenue deficit.
The BJP in its presentation demanded the release of ₹50,000 crore for the next five years to cater to the huge population of the city and the Mumbai Metropolitan Region.
“The Central government should cater a special package for Marathwada and Vidarbha for the betterment of the region. Ten districts of the State fall in the economically backward region,” Mr. Bhatkhalkar said.
