The Jharkhand Budget 2026-27 has drawn contrasting responses from the ruling coalition and the Opposition, setting the stage for a sharp debate in the Assembly over priorities, delivery and fiscal management.
Chief Minister Hemant Soren defended the budget as transparent and inclusive, saying it was prepared with a focus on comprehensive development. He said special emphasis has been placed on gender budgeting and efforts were made to ensure that all sections of society are covered.
He added that outcomes would be visible on the ground and if any group feels left out, the government is open to suggestions and will consider them sensitively.
Jharkhand BJP state president and MP Aditya Sahu termed the Rs 1.58 lakh crore outlay directionless and factually weak. He alleged that the document lacked a clear development roadmap and relied heavily on projections.
Citing expenditure data, he claimed that nearly 50 per cent of the previous budget allocation remained unspent, raising questions about implementation capacity.
Sahu also sought a detailed break-up of the state government’s claim regarding Rs 1.36 lakh crore in pending central dues, saying repeated references without specifics create confusion. He further raised concerns over pending scholarships, pensions, paddy procurement commitments and provisions related to women’s welfare.
Leader of Opposition Babulal Marandi described the budget as lacking direction and alleged that large allocations have not translated into visible improvements in basic amenities.
He said people in several areas continue to face issues related to roads, drinking water and healthcare. Marandi also objected to the proposed construction of RIMS-2 on agricultural land and suggested that alternative land be considered.
Health Minister Irfan Ansari rejected the criticism, maintaining that health, education and infrastructure remain central to the government’s priorities. He said projects such as RIMS-2 would strengthen the state’s healthcare network and improve access to quality treatment.
JDU MLA Saryu Roy offered a separate critique, stating that the budget appeared to repeat earlier provisions without introducing new policy direction. He called for greater fiscal discipline and clearer prioritisation of spending.
Jairam Mahto of Jharkhand Loktantrik Krantikari Morcha questioned transparency in expenditure and demanded a white paper on utilisation of funds under the previous budget, arguing that credibility depends on delivery rather than announcements.