DMDK, MDMK slam T.N. budget

Opposition parties in Tamil Nadu -- the DMDK, MDMK and CPI (M) have criticised the budget presented by the AIADMK government. Howver. the Congress has welcomed the tax exemption granted for certain items in the budget

Opposition parties in Tamil Nadu on Monday slammed the ruling AIADMK’s budget presented by Finance Minister O Panneerselvam.

Opposition Leader and DMDK founder Vijayakant said while the government had mentioned of a revenue surplus of Rs. 2,376 crore, what was the need to impose fresh taxation to the tune of Rs. 1,500 crore.

“Some relief could have been given at least to the poorer sections of the society from the bus fare hike (announced last year). It’s regrettable that no such announcement was made,” he said in a statement.

There was no provision to help people stand on their own feet, he said.

MDMK leader Vaiko said new taxes porposed would not help in containing the price-rise.

No major announcement was made on the power generation front, he said, adding, it was not clear if the government’s announcement of attracting Rs. 20,000 crore in six months would fructify. The budget had no provisions for overall development, he claimed.

CPI (M) said the budget only outlined existing schemes and did not contain any provisions for the poor. There was no announcement on the law and order front, party’s state unit secretary G. Ramakrishnan said.

TNCC president B.S. Gnanadesikan MP welcomed the tax exemption for wheat, oats and insulin.