New Delhi

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Thursday criticised the Congress in the Rajya Sabha, accusing it of raising concerns over rising public debt while simultaneously pressing the government to increase borrowing and release more funds to states.

Replying to the debate on the Union Budget 2026–27, Sitharaman said the opposition was being inconsistent in its position.

“The Congress sheds crocodile tears about rising debt. At the same time, they ask us to borrow more and release additional funds to states,” she said.

Emphasising fiscal prudence, the Finance Minister asserted that the Centre is guided by the principle of avoiding excessive borrowing.

“The government cannot borrow recklessly. That principle guides us,” she said, adding that while the opposition focuses on higher outlays, the government prioritises measurable outcomes.

“We are not hesitant to support states financially, but we want outcomes. They are concerned about spending; we are concerned about results,” she remarked.

The debate also saw a sharp exchange between Sitharaman and Leader of the Opposition in the Rajya Sabha Mallikarjun Kharge over Tamil Nadu’s fiscal position.

Responding to concerns raised by DMK MP P. Wilson regarding rising national debt, the Finance Minister said debt reduction is a shared responsibility of both the Centre and the states.

“Whether it is the Centre or a state, everyone has to work towards reducing debt,” she said.

Citing remarks made by former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi K. Palaniswami, Sitharaman referred to the state’s borrowing trends over the years. She said successive governments over several decades had accumulated around ₹5 lakh crore in debt, and alleged that a significant portion had been added in recent years.

Her comments triggered protests from the opposition benches, with Kharge questioning the relevance of discussing Tamil Nadu’s finances during a debate on the Union Budget.

“Are you speaking on the Tamil Nadu Budget or the Union Budget? This has nothing to do with the business of this House. It is not fair,” Kharge said, condemning the remarks.

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The Budget Session of Parliament, which commenced on January 28, is scheduled to run for 30 sittings over 65 days and conclude on April 2. Both Houses will adjourn on February 13 for a recess and reconvene on March 9 to allow Department-related Standing Committees to examine Demands for Grants of various ministries.