Union budget directionless: Chhattisgarh chief minister

RAIPUR - Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Raman Singh Monday described the budget presented by union Finance Minister Pranab Mukherjee as ‘directionless’ and lacking in efforts to rein in inflation.

“Like the rail budget, the general budget too is directionless and disappointing. It lacks in efforts to rein in rising inflation and unemployment,” Singh told journalists reacting to the budget presented in the Lok Sabha.

The chief minister said the finance minister has disappointed people in most sectors, but women were the most disappointed as the government has forgotten in this budget to make a single good announcement for them.

However, the opposition Congress heaped praise on the finance minister for a “balanced and growth oriented budget”.

“It’s a budget that cares for the need of each section of the society - farmers, poor, middle income group and senior citizens - everyone has a reason to smile,” said Congress leader Ravindra Choube, who is also leader of opposition in the state assembly.