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Saikia Urges Gauhati High Court to Investigate Assam’s Budget Violations and Suspend New Freebies

Saikia’s petition requests a three-month CAG audit of Assam’s fiscal compliance, accompanied by an interim freeze on seven unbudgeted welfare schemes to enforce constitutional spending limits.

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The Congress pointed to potential fraud and corruption. (X)

Overview

  • He highlights that Assam’s fiscal deficit repeatedly exceeded the 3% of GSDP limit, peaking at 6.5% in 2022-23, while liabilities climbed to ₹1.84 lakh crore, or 25.2% of GSDP, by July 2025.
  • Citing adverse findings from the CAG, RBI and PRS India, he alleges systemic mismanagement such as understatement of deficits, misclassification of expenditures and underutilisation of funds.
  • The petition asks the High Court to direct the Comptroller and Auditor General to complete a time-bound, three-month audit of the state’s compliance with the Assam Fiscal Responsibility and Budget Management Act.
  • Saikia has requested an interim stay on seven post-budget cash transfer and freebie schemes announced outside the annual budget ahead of the 2026 state elections.
  • Invoking Article 226 of the Constitution, he argues that judicial oversight is crucial to uphold statutory fiscal targets and protect Assam’s economic stability and public welfare.