Finance Minister set to counter Opposition’s charges amid heated debate
February 12, 2026: Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is scheduled to reply to the discussion on the Union Budget in the Rajya Sabha today, following sharp exchanges between the ruling party and the Opposition. The debate has centred on economic policies, farmer welfare and fiscal priorities, with both sides trading barbs over the government’s approach to growth and inflation.
Earlier in the Lok Sabha, Sitharaman strongly responded to Congress leader Rahul Gandhi’s allegations against the government. She accused the Congress of having “knelt down in 2013” and compromising farmers’ interests during the UPA regime. The Finance Minister alleged that key decisions taken at the time harmed agricultural stakeholders and weakened India’s negotiating position.
While the government maintains that the current Budget prioritises growth, rural development and farmer welfare, the Opposition has flagged concerns over inflation, unemployment and rural distress. Sitharaman’s reply in the Upper House is expected to directly address these criticisms and outline the government’s broader economic roadmap.