Budget 2025: The BJP has issued a three-line directive for all Lok Sabha MPs, instructing them to be present in the Lok Sabha tomorrow, March 21, for the budget’s approval. In addition, the Lok Sabha has declared that the guillotine will be implemented tomorrow.
In March 2023, Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla had previously employed the guillotine to facilitate the clearance of the Budget 2023-24.
Union Budget 2025
On February 1, 2025, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman unveiled the Union Budget for the fiscal year 2025-2026.
Noteworthy aspects of the Union Budget 2025 include tax reforms, such as raising the income tax exemption limit to ₹12 lakh and reorganizing tax brackets to favor middle-income earners.
The Union Budget 2025 also prioritizes infrastructure enhancement, marked by a significant boost in capital expenditure aimed at modernizing transport systems and urban infrastructure.
Moreover, Budget 2025 provides considerable assistance for startups and small enterprises through extended tax incentives and streamlined compliance measures.
What Does ‘Applying the Guillotine’ Mean in Lok Sabha?
Traditionally, a guillotine refers to a device historically used during the French Revolution for executing individuals by beheading. It is also known as a machine for cutting paper.
In the context of parliamentary procedure, however, the guillotine signifies a method mandated by the Speaker of Lok Sabha to approve a bill without discussion. This approach is utilized for urgent bills that may face delays due to intense opposition and impasses.
Once the Budget is introduced in the Lok Sabha, Parliament enters a three-week recess. During this time, the House Standing Committees review and compile reports on the demand for grants from various departments.
The Business Advisory Committee (BAC) establishes a timeline for the discussion of the demands for grants. The budgetary requests from key ministries, including Home, Defence, External Affairs, and Agriculture, are deliberated. Following these discussions, all pending demands are approved. However, should a stalemate occur in the lower house, the Speaker resorts to the guillotine to ensure the passage of the Union Budget.
