Opposition Walks Out Demanding a Discussion Over Maha Kumbh Stampede as FM Sitharaman Presents Union Budget 2025

The Opposition on Saturday staged a walkout during Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman's presentation of the Union Budget, demanding a discussion on the stampede at the Mahakumbh in Uttar Pradesh. Sitharaman delivered her record eighth budget speech amid intense protests, with the opposition insisting that the government disclose an updated list of the casualty figures from the tragic incident that occurred on Wednesday.

"Right now, there is something more important than the budget. Families are searching for their missing relatives. The Chief Minister, Union Home Minister, and even the Vice President have visited the Maha Kumbh site, but the government has failed to provide the number of deceased and missing persons. Hindus have lost their lives, yet there is no accountability. I had urged earlier as well—call the Army to handle the situation,” said Saamajwadi Party Chief and Kannauj MP, Akhilesh Yadav.

As Nirmala Sitharaman began her speech around 11 AM, Samajwadi Party MPs, including party chief Akhilesh Yadav, interrupted the proceedings, demanding that the government release an updated list of those who lost their lives in the Maha Kumbh stampede. The MPs then staged a symbolic walkout of the house. In the aftermath of the stampede at Maha Kumbh in Uttar Pradesh, the state government had issued the one and only list of casualties, 19 hours after the incident.

Despite the disruptions, Sitharaman continued with her budget presentation, emphasizing on fiscal prudence and economic growth. The key highlights included, no income tax for individuals earning up to ₹12 lakh per annum. However, the budget drew criticism for allegedly favoring NDA-ruled states like Bihar while neglecting the Opposition states.

Several opposition leaders, including Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge, criticized the budget, calling it “anti-people” and alleging that it disproportionately benefits states aligned with the ruling National Democratic Alliance (NDA). Sitharaman, however, dismissed these claims as “outrageous” and reaffirmed the government's commitment to economic stability.