Privatisation, land deals and gimmicks define Kerala Revised Budget, says ex-Minister K. Rajan

Former Kerala Revenue Minister K. Rajan, MLA, has launched a strong attack on the revised 2026–27 State Budget, alleging that “privatisation, land deals and gimmicks” form its core.

Targeting the proposed Land Reforms 2.0, Mr. Rajan told the media in Thrissur on Saturday that changes to land laws and ceiling norms would pave the way for large-scale transfer of land to corporates. He argued that the Budget marks a clear shift away from the welfare state model.

“The move to fast-track land conversion for commercial use and open up plantation land for tourism is aimed at benefiting real estate interests and land mafias,” he said, warning that the government was attempting to dilute the essence of land reforms.

Calling privatisation the “signature” of the Budget, Mr. Rajan said the policy direction signals increased private sector entry even in critical sectors such as healthcare. Mr. Rajan said that with the support of fiscal projections in the ‘White Paper’, the UDF govvernment is creating a narrative that privatisation is the only way for development.

He also criticised the government’s position on the PM SHRI scheme, alleging that such initiatives could introduce “ideologically driven content” in the education system. Questioning the urgency to implement the scheme, he asked whether external pressure was influencing the decision.

Rejecting claims about the previous LDF government’s role, he said that although an MoU had been signed earlier, steps were taken within weeks to freeze implementation, with no schools selected or funds drawn.