New Delhi, January 28: BJP rebel and former Union finance minister Yashwant Sinha said if the government presents a full Budget on February 1, it would be violating Article 16 of the Constitution, which bars the Centre from rolling out a fiscal policy for 12 months ahead of the general elections. As per the norm in place, the government could present only an interim Budget, he said.

Sinha said it would be "unconstitutional" if the Narendra Modi government introduces a Finance Bill, presents an economic survey, or roll-out policies involving a 12-month fiscal plan. Yashwant Sinha Takes Jibe at Narendra Modi, Says 'I am Dalit Like Sitaram Kesri, Why PM is Unfair to Me'.

"There are certain rules in place. Why do we have Article 16 in the Constitution? Government cannot present a full Budget," he was reported as saying.

Sinha's remarks comes in the backdrop of the Opposition accusing the government of attempting to "hoodwink" the nation with grandiose announcements in the final Budget. "Any such attempt will be challenged on "floor of the House".

As per reports making the rounds, Prime Minister Narendra Modi is reportedly considering to announce a massive agrarian sop - on lines of the Rythu Bandhu scheme of Telangana - or a 'Universal Basic Income', which would generate fixed amount for essential needs to the unemployed and poor individuals across the nation.

While the Centre is reportedly contemplating over such a populist measure, the Congress on Monday sent shockwaves across the political circles. Party president Rahul Gandhi, while addressing a farmers' rally in Raipur, promised basic "minimum basic income" to all poor if Congress gets elected to power.

"After winning in 2019 we'll take a step that no party has ever taken, we will ensure minimum universal basic income for the poor. No government in the world has ever taken such a decision," Gandhi said.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jan 28, 2019 06:35 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).