Shakti Basnet Criticizes Budget for Ignoring Farmers; Warns of Protest if Demands Not Met

CPN (Maoist Centre) Deputy General Secretary Shakti Bahadur Basnet has criticized the government’s new budget, saying it fails to address the needs of farmers. Speaking at a program in Sambad Dabali on Friday, Basnet expressed disappointment over the lack of proper plans for the agricultural sector, calling the budget inadequate and unfair to the farming community.

He also warned that if the government does not implement the recent two-point agreement with the opposition within 30 days, the Maoist Centre is ready to launch street protests. Basnet said the party expects a high-level investigation committee to be formed soon and emphasized the need for responsible conduct from both the government and opposition.

Linking the current farmers’ movement to the historic people’s revolution of 2038 BS, Basnet said the movement could take a new form in response to changing social conditions.

Meanwhile, Minister for Water Supply Pradeep Yadav defended the budget during the Janata Samajbadi Party’s federal council meeting. He claimed the budget was inclusive and aimed at promoting development, employment, and social justice, with priority given to drinking water, health, education, and infrastructure.