Reacting on the Rail Budget, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) on Thursday said the Railway Budget is a document of illusion targeted at painting a rosy picture where none actually exists. It is oblivious of the common man’s needs while it tries to create space for corporate interests.
“It has been the modus operandi of the Narendra Modi government to keep the Budget speech limited to popular announcements and then use the back door official orders to bring in anti-people moves. Around 23 per cent unannounced hike in Rail fares happened during the last year. Passenger has been tricked by adding the insurance component which he will have to pay from his pocket,” said AAP.
Apart from the token announcements of Antyodaya coaches for unreserved category, there is no step taken for making Indian trains truly accommodative for the poor. The government seems least bothered about the safety and amenities for poor travellers who cannot afford reserved category. Confirming with the nature of the Modi government, the Railway Budget has announcements for the elite and the middle classes — apps, wi-fi, fm connectivity and the likes.