UP Assembly budget session begins amid Opposition protests
UP Assembly budget session begins amid Opposition protests
M.U.H
09/02/202628
Lucknow: The budget session of the Uttar Pradesh Legislative Assembly commenced on Monday with Governor Anandiben Patel addressing the House amid sloganeering by Opposition members.
In her address, the Governor highlighted key achievements of the state government, stating that around six crore people had been lifted out of poverty in Uttar Pradesh. She also underlined the large turnout at major religious gatherings held in the state.
“Over six crore people have been alleviated from poverty in the state,” the Governor said, adding that more than 65 crore devotees participated in the 2025 Maha Kumbh, while over 21 crore people attended the Magh Mela 2026 in Prayagraj.
Ahead of the session, Samajwadi Party MLA Ravidas Mehrotra criticised the state government, alleging that the Governor’s address merely reflected the ruling dispensation’s claims. He warned that the Opposition would oppose the speech if it did not independently reflect the Governor’s views.
Speaking to ANI, Mehrotra said the government had failed on multiple fronts and questioned its financial management. He claimed that although the state was set to present a budget of nearly ₹9 lakh crore, less than 40 per cent of the previous year’s budget had been utilised.
“The Governor should deliver her own speech and not repeat the government’s propaganda. If that happens, we will oppose it. This government has failed on all fronts. Despite announcing a ₹9 lakh crore budget, even 40 per cent of the previous budget has not been spent,” he said.
Meanwhile, Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya appealed to the Opposition to raise issues in a constructive manner during the session.
“If the Opposition has any concerns, they should raise them constructively. If they choose to behave negatively, they will only be playing the role of the Opposition. The budget will be presented on February 11,” Maurya said.
The Budget Session will continue until February 20, with the Uttar Pradesh government scheduled to present the state budget for the 2026–27 financial year on February 11.
