The proposed 2026-27 budget has ignited a fierce debate in the National Parliament. The ruling party members argue that the budget outlines a cohesive economic recovery plan aimed at restructuring the fragile economy. In contrast, opposition members vehemently criticize it, labeling it an 'unrealistic dream'. The discussion took place during the general debate on the budget for the fiscal year 2026-27.
Ruling Party Defends Budget as Economic Recovery Plan
Ruling party members, including Nawagaon-4 BNP member Ekramul Bari Tipu, assert that the budget reflects a clear plan for economic restructuring over the next five years. Tipu emphasized that the budget, presented by Finance Minister Amir Khosru Mahmud Chowdhury on June 11, aims to increase GDP growth from the current 4.14% to 6.5% in the upcoming fiscal year. He criticized the opposition for their harsh criticism, urging them to analyze the budget's plans and goals rather than dismissing it as mere mathematical calculations.
Opposition Criticizes Budget as Unrealistic
Opposition members, such as Rangpur-3 Jamaat-e-Islami member Mahbubur Rahman Bella, argue that the proposed budget is unrealistic. Bella pointed out that the revenue target of 6.95 trillion Taka is unattainable, given the National Board of Revenue's (NBR) performance in the current fiscal year. He noted that the NBR has collected only 3.26 trillion Taka against a revised target of 5.03 trillion Taka, resulting in an 880 billion Taka revenue shortfall. Bella questioned the feasibility of the proposed budget, calling it an unrealistic dream.
Diverse Opinions on Budget's Feasibility
The debate saw diverse opinions on the budget's feasibility. While some, like Munshiganj-3 BNP member M. Kamruzzaman, compared the budget to bold economic plans adopted by South Korea and Singapore in 1965, others, such as Sirajganj-5 BNP member M. Amirul Islam, expressed confidence in the BNP-led government's ability to implement the budget successfully. Cumilla-5 BNP member M. Jasim Uddin highlighted that the budget not only addresses current challenges but also outlines a vision for the future generation.
Specific Concerns Raised by Opposition
Opposition members raised specific concerns about the budget. Chapai Nawabganj-1 opposition member Keramat Ali criticized the allocation for madrasa education, which he deemed insufficient at 184.57 billion Taka out of a total education allocation of 1.22 trillion Taka. Reserved Women Seat-50 National Citizen Party (NCP) member Nusrat Tabassum Jyoti called for an increase in the budget for forest conservation, including the Sundarbans. She argued that the proposed budget did not adequately address critical environmental concerns.
