Indian shares fell 1.97 percent on Tuesday, as investors turned jittery on uncertainties over reforms, ahead of the federal budget next week, dealers said. The benchmark 30-share Sensex fell 291.9 points to 14,493.84.
Investors continued to unwind positions ahead of the federal budget to be presented by the Congress party-led government on July 6, with the focus expected to be on boosting growth - even at the risk of a wider fiscal deficit.
Losers led gainers 1,846 to 757 on turnover of 59.32 billion rupees (1.23 billion dollars). DLF fell 27.2 rupees or 8.05 percent to 310.8 while leading vehicle maker Tata Motors slipped 22.7 rupees or 7.23 percent to 291.15. Reliance Industries retreated 61.6 rupees or 2.95 percent to 2,023.25.