THE JHARKHAND STORY NETWORK
Ranchi, March 4: BJP State President and former Chief Minister Babulal Marandi launched a scathing attack on the state government during the 2025-26 budget discussion in the Assembly. He called the budget directionless, short-sighted, and anti-development, accusing the ruling party of indulging in politics even in the budget speech.
Marandi criticized Finance Minister Radha Krishna Kishore for failing to mention Atal Bihari Vajpayee, the leader who fulfilled the dream of a separate Jharkhand. He called it a deliberate omission, exposing the government’s “narrow-minded and biased” approach.
“Opponents of Jharkhand’s Creation Now in Power”
Marandi reminded the House that those in power today once opposed Jharkhand’s formation. “The same people who said a separate Jharkhand would be created over their dead bodies are now running the government,” he said.
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He also pointed out that Atal Ji’s statue stands at the Assembly’s main gate and that he remains in the hearts of the people, yet the government refuses to acknowledge his contribution.
Budget Fails to Deliver, Says Marandi
Criticizing the budget, Marandi argued that while its size appears large, funds never reach the people. Due to poor financial management, even after foundation stones are laid, contractors fail to start work due to a lack of funds. “Projects are stalled while people wait for money,” he said.
He also questioned the state government’s financial planning, stating that while non-plan expenditures have increased, plan allocations have been significantly cut. He warned that if the government makes even minor adjustments, non-plan expenses will rise further.
Marandi pointed out that revenue collection for the current financial year stands at only 58.82%, with 28.35% coming from central taxes. This, he said, shows the state government’s failure to drive development.
“Jharkhand Govt Misleads Public on Modi’s Help”
Marandi accused the state government of spreading false propaganda against the Modi-led central government. He argued that while the center provides ample financial support, the state government blames Delhi to hide its failures.
Comparing past and present central aid, he presented figures:
- UPA (2004-2014): ₹56,090 crore to Jharkhand
- Modi government (2014-2024): ₹2,26,444 crore (4x increase)
- Central grants: UPA – ₹28,509 crore, Modi govt – ₹1,04,373 crore (266% rise)
In railways, Jharkhand received only ₹457 crore from 2009-2014 under the UPA, while Modi’s government allocated ₹7,309 crore in the last 10 years.
State in Crisis: No Doctors, No Teachers, No Development
Marandi accused the state government of failing in governance, relying on big promises instead of action. He highlighted severe shortages in health and education:
- 4 doctors per 10,000 people
- 2,252 headmaster posts vacant
- 2,200 teacher positions unfilled
- 3,320 university staff positions vacant
Despite central assistance, schemes like the Jal Jeevan Mission remain incomplete, reaching only 52.6% of homes. Other projects, including Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana and Ayushman Yojana, also suffer from delays.
“Government Running Away from Responsibility”
Marandi concluded by accusing the state government of evading its duties while misleading the public. “The people know the truth—this government does nothing and simply blames the centre,” he said, urging the government to focus on real development instead of politics.
