Punjab Finance Minister Criticizes BJP for Economic Challenges

Punjab's Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema took aim at the central government, accusing it of economic mismanagement. He criticized 12 years of BJP rule for leading to a slowdown, increasing debt, and declining investor confidence.

Cheema noted that while the BJP aimed to position India as a global leader, the country now trails behind smaller economies in vital indicators. He highlighted Taiwan's market capitalization surpassing India, arguing that the current administration must account for economic shortcomings and clarify future strategies.

Cheema also expressed concern over the Reserve Bank of India's reduced Contingent Risk Buffer, which he interpreted as a temporary fix for budget issues rather than a sustainable economic strategy. He warned of weakening financial resilience due to such policies.

He asserted that genuine economic governance requires transparency, policies focused on boosting domestic demand, job creation, and investor confidence, rather than mere political grandstanding.

(With inputs from agencies.)