“Is 18 Bigger Than Zero?” Akhilesh Yadav Questions Budget Narrative, Calls Savarkar Debate a Distraction

Delhi: Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav on Monday launched a sharp attack on the Centre, linking the ongoing debate around RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat’s remarks on Veer Savarkar with what he described as deliberate attempts to divert attention from pressing economic concerns.

Reacting to the political reactions triggered by Bhagwat’s statement, Yadav said the real issue before the country was not symbolic debates but the impact of the Union Budget on ordinary citizens, especially farmers. “The biggest question today is simple — is 18 greater than zero? Who actually gained from the so-called sweet talk in the budget?” he asked.

The former Uttar Pradesh chief minister stressed that Parliament must hold a detailed discussion on the budget, arguing that farmers and the poor have been left confused and uncertain. “There should be a serious debate on the budget. What are farmers supposed to do now? What support are they actually getting?” he said.

Drawing a parallel with past economic reforms, Yadav remarked that promises made during earlier phases of economic liberalisation had failed large sections of society. “When India opened up its economy earlier, it was said the poor and farmers would benefit. But when we look back today, the reality is clear — the rich became richer, and the poor became poorer,” he said.

He further claimed that the current phase of economic expansion would only deepen inequality. “Now the economy is being opened up even more. But who is this really helping?” Yadav questioned, alleging that emotive issues and historical debates were being highlighted to shift focus away from economic distress.

“All these statements and controversies are being pushed only to distract people from the real issues of livelihood, inflation and farmers’ income,” he added, signalling that his party would continue to demand accountability on economic policies rather than symbolic narratives.