Thiruvananthapuram, FEBRUARY 2 – The ruling CPI (M) on Sunday intensified its attack on the Centre over the alleged neglect of Kerala in the Union Budget 2025-26, claiming it reflects the BJP’s “anti-Kerala” stance.
Senior CPI (M) leaders M.V. Govindan and E.P. Jayarajan strongly criticized the budget presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and condemned Union Minister of State George Kurian’s controversial remark regarding budget allocations for the state.
Responding to criticism from both the ruling LDF and the opposition UDF, Kurian had stated that if Kerala wanted more funds, it should declare itself backward in terms of education, infrastructure, and social welfare.
CPI (M) state secretary M.V. Govindan accused the BJP of consistently discriminating against Kerala and attempting to hinder its progress. He highlighted the state’s achievements in human development, healthcare, and education, alleging that the Centre deliberately overlooked Kerala’s demands to stall its growth.
“The BJP’s objective is to weaken Kerala economically. Since their attempts to gain political ground in the state have failed, they are now trying to push Kerala backward by denying its rightful allocations,” Govindan claimed.
He further alleged that the Union government’s approach was politically motivated, violating federal principles and undermining secular values.
Echoing these concerns, CPI (M) veteran E.P. Jayarajan urged the Centre to ensure equal treatment for all states and called for strong public opposition to Kurian’s statement.
The criticism follows strong reactions from Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, state Finance Minister K.N. Balagopal, and Leader of Opposition V.D. Satheesan, who accused the Centre of ignoring Kerala’s key demands, including a ₹24,000 crore special financial package and aid for Wayanad’s rehabilitation.