Indian Union Muslim League (IUML) general secretary P.K. Kunhalikutty said that the State Budget had shattered the expectations of the ordinary people. “The Budget is not only devoid of anything that brings relief to the common man’s life but it is also filled with decisions that make their life even harder,” he said.

Mr. Kunhalikutty said that the Budgets over the last eight years had failed to provide any form of relief or hope for the people. “In a country where fuel prices disrupt the living Budget, what message is the government sending by raising the tax on electric vehicles, which are seen as a potential alternative?” he asked.

The IUML leader criticised the government for increasing the court fee. “In the development sector, funding has been cut by 50%. Wayanad received nothing from the Centre. What did the State give? Only ₹750 crore, while individuals and organisations in this State have contributed much more. The government claims it has no money. Is exploiting the people the solution?” he asked.

“In short, the Budget has said unequivocally that they [the LDF-led government] could not manage the State. The people of Kerala have realised this, and they will respond when the time comes,” said Mr. Kunhalikutty.