Stop Budget Before Polls, Asks Opposition; No Question, Says Government

As the Election Commission announces the dates for crucial polls in five states including Uttar Pradesh and Punjab, the opposition is up in arms opposing the early Budget proposed by Modi government. 16 parties have already written to the President and the Election Commission stating that centre must not be allowed to advance the presentation of Budget on Feb 1 as it will benefit the BJP in upcoming polls. The government, meanwhile, has refused to budge, saying it can't come to a standstill due to state polls. With opposition and centre at loggerheads, early budget has become the latest flashpoint. On The Buck Stops Here we debate if the Election Commission should intervene? Will BJP gain in poll-bound states with the Budget just 3 days before polls?