Trinamool Congress (TMC) leader Abhishek Banerjee has launched a scathing attack on the Union Budget 2026, accusing the central government of completely ignoring West Bengal in its financial plans. In a sharp critique, Banerjee highlighted that the Budget speech, which lasted for 85 minutes or 5,100 seconds, did not mention Bengal even once, signaling what he perceives as deliberate neglect.
Allegations of Discrimination and Identity Politics
Banerjee went further to allege that the government views people from Bengal as 'Bangladeshis,' a remark that has stirred controversy and raised questions about regional representation in national policies. This statement underscores the ongoing political tensions between the TMC and the ruling party at the center, with Banerjee suggesting a pattern of marginalization.
Broader Critique of Budget's Lack of Concrete Measures
Beyond the omission of Bengal, Banerjee criticized the Budget for failing to address key issues affecting various segments of society. He pointed out that there were no concrete provisions for farmers, youth, or other groups, calling the speech devoid of substantial benefits for anyone. This critique aligns with broader opposition concerns about the Budget's effectiveness in tackling economic challenges.
The remarks were made in response to the Budget presented on February 1, 2026, and have since sparked debates in political circles. As West Bengal continues to be a significant battleground in Indian politics, such statements from TMC leaders are likely to influence public discourse and electoral strategies in the region.
