Puducherry’s legislative assembly is gearing up for a crucial session on Thursday, where Chief Minister N. Rangasamy will table the interim budget. This meeting is likely to be the last for the current house before the upcoming assembly elections.
Holding the finance portfolio himself, Rangasamy will seek approval for government expenditures over the next five months. Traditionally, Puducherry presents its full annual budget in March, but with elections looming and the government’s term ending in April, an interim financial statement has become necessary.
The session will kick off with tributes to departed souls, followed by the budget presentation. The government will also request legislative nod for additional spending incurred during the current fiscal year.
Opposition parties, including Congress and DMK, are poised to raise their voices. They plan to highlight allegations of corruption and the circulation of spurious drugs in the union territory, among other pressing issues. Expect heated debates as these concerns take center stage.
Leading the NR Congress-BJP alliance government since taking power after the 2021 elections, Rangasamy’s administration faces the end of its term this April. This session marks the final act for the current assembly under their watch.
Post-election, a new government will reconvene the house and present a comprehensive budget. The Election Commission is expected to announce the poll schedule by the end of this month, triggering the model code of conduct. Ministers and MLAs will then have to surrender official vehicles and assembly office spaces as per election guidelines.
Puducherry’s 33-member assembly comprises 30 elected legislators and three nominated members. The breakdown includes 10 from NR Congress, six from BJP, six from DMK, two from Congress, and six independents, with all nominated members affiliated to BJP.