In the latest central budget, the government has cut down tariffs and customs duty on a number of items such as essential drugs. On the other hand, luxury goods, including watches and alcoholic beverages, are set to attract a higher rate of tax, making them more expensive.

The ministry added that Islamabad should instead focus on addressing the long-standing demands of the people in Balochistan. The response comes after a Pakistani minister alleged India’s role in the attacks, which led to the death of over 100 people, including more than a dozen security personnel.

Tharoor said that while the central government ignores Kerala, the state government continues proposing projects it cannot afford. “The Centre ignores us, and the State proposes paper projects it cannot afford. Our commuters are left with nothing,” he wrote.