Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) chief Mayawati on Wednesday questioned the relevance and effectiveness of President Droupadi Murmu’s address to the joint sitting of Parliament, saying it appeared more traditional in nature and less useful for addressing the pressing issues faced by the common people.
In a statement posted on social media platform X, Mayawati said that the Budget Session of Parliament has begun at a time when the country is grappling with serious challenges, both domestic and global. She noted that the world is witnessing major upheavals due to the United States’ “America First” policy, which is bound to have an impact on India as well.
Expressing concern over the government’s heavy reliance on the private sector, Mayawati said such an approach may not be entirely effective in the Indian socio-economic context. She added that public apprehensions and anxieties remain, and therefore the government needs to demonstrate stronger self-confidence while addressing national and public-interest issues, including self-reliance and foreign policy.
The BSP chief further stated that while the government aggressively targets its political opponents, both inside and outside Parliament, people expect the same intensity and clarity in policies aimed at strengthening public confidence and safeguarding national interests. She said the Budget Session would be meaningful only if it reflects this resolve.
Referring to India’s proposed trade agreement with the European Union after nearly 20 years, Mayawati emphasized that such agreements should not only benefit big corporates and wealthy industrialists but must also serve the welfare and interests of the common people.