‘Waste Of Time’: Ashneer Grover Compares Budget 2026 To Shark Tank Jibe

Ashneer Grover slams Budget 2026 as “bilkul time waste” in sharp post after Sitharaman’s speech. Sitharaman outlined measures aimed at boosting manufacturing & infrastructure.

By : Ritwik Dutta | Updated at : 01 Feb 2026 04:42 PM (IST)

Ashneer-grover-reacts-union-budget-2026-time-waste ‘Waste Of Time’: Ashneer Grover Compares Budget 2026 To Shark Tank Jibe

This budget reminded me of my rebuke on Shark Tank to one of the pitchers: ‘Bilkul time waste kiya aapne – apna bhi aur humara bhi!’'

Source : ANI

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Entrepreneur Ashneer Grover, best known for his role as a judge on Shark Tank India, has reacted sharply to the Union Budget 2026, calling it a “bilkul time waste” in a post on social media platform X. Grover’s remarks came hours after Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman presented the Union Budget in Parliament on Sunday. Taking a dig at the Finance Minister’s speech, Grover compared the Budget to a reprimand he once delivered to a participant on Shark Tank India.

Grover Jibe Sparks Budget Debate

“This budget reminded me of my rebuke on Shark Tank to one of the pitchers: ‘Bilkul time waste kiya aapne – apna bhi aur humara bhi!’” Grover wrote. His post triggered a flurry of reactions online, with several users echoing his criticism and describing the Budget as disappointing. Some users said the speech failed to meet expectations, while others defended the government, calling the Budget “okay” and urging patience. Finance Minister Sitharaman, who presented her ninth consecutive Budget, outlined measures aimed at boosting manufacturing, infrastructure and economic self-reliance under the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative.

Tax Slabs Status Quo Debated

However, the announcement that income tax slabs would remain unchanged emerged as a major talking point. The Budget also proposed a reduction in Tax Collected at Source (TCS) from 5 per cent to 2 per cent on education and medical expenses under the Liberalised Remittance Scheme, along with plans to scale up manufacturing across seven priority sectors. Reactions to the Budget have been mixed. While opposition leaders criticised it for offering little relief to the middle class, several industry leaders welcomed its focus on healthcare, technology, semiconductors and manufacturing.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was Ashneer Grover's initial reaction to the Union Budget 2026?

Entrepreneur Ashneer Grover called the Union Budget 2026

What specific measure in the budget was a major talking point?

The announcement that income tax slabs would remain unchanged emerged as a major talking point for the Union Budget 2026. This aspect of the budget drew significant attention.

What were some of the key proposals in the Union Budget 2026?

The budget proposed reducing TCS on education and medical expenses under the Liberalised Remittance Scheme from 5% to 2%. It also aimed to scale up manufacturing in seven priority sectors.

How were the reactions to the Union Budget 2026 divided?

Reactions to the Union Budget 2026 were mixed. While opposition leaders criticized it, industry leaders welcomed its focus on various sectors like healthcare and manufacturing.

About the author Ritwik Dutta

Ritwik Dutta is a Senior Copy Editor at ABP Live English, who blends an engineer’s precision with a reporter’s instinct. With a background in data and analytics, he delivers evidence-driven, real-time coverage of key national and global developments, breaking down complex subjects into clear, engaging stories that make information more accessible and strengthen public understanding.

For tips and queries, write to ritwikd@abpnetwork.com.