A sharp political confrontation has erupted in West Bengal following the presentation of the state’s interim budget for the financial year 2026, with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) accusing the Trinamool Congress (TMC) government of prioritising vote-bank politics over long-term economic growth.
The budget, tabled on February 5, 2026, by Finance Minister Chandrima Bhattacharya, outlines an expenditure of approximately ₹4.06 lakh crore and places strong emphasis on welfare-driven sectors such as education, health, and social assistance ahead of the upcoming state elections.
Budget Allocations Trigger Political Firestorm
BJP Rajya Sabha MP Sudhanshu Trivedi launched a scathing attack on the budget, highlighting what he described as a disproportionate allocation of funds. According to figures cited by the BJP, the state government earmarked ₹5,713.61 crore for Minority Affairs and Madrasah Education.
In contrast, allocations for growth-oriented sectors appeared significantly lower, with Information Technology receiving around ₹217 crore, Science and Research just ₹82.34 crore, and Industry and Commerce approximately ₹1,400 crore.
The BJP argued that such spending patterns reflect misplaced priorities, particularly at a time when West Bengal is struggling to attract large-scale investments and generate high-quality employment for youth.
BJP Alleges Vote-Bank Politics
Addressing the media, Sudhanshu Trivedi alleged that the Mamata Banerjee-led government was deliberately sidelining industrial development to consolidate its minority vote base. He claimed that underinvestment in science, technology, and industry would weaken the state’s competitiveness and push skilled professionals to migrate elsewhere.
BJP leaders further pointed out that innovation, startups, and manufacturing require sustained financial backing, which they believe the current budget fails to provide.
TMC Defends Welfare-Focused Approach
The Trinamool Congress, however, strongly rejected the BJP’s allegations, asserting that the budget reflects a pro-people philosophy aimed at reducing poverty and ensuring inclusive development.
TMC leaders argued that investments in minority welfare, education, and healthcare contribute directly to human capital development and social stability, which in turn supports long-term economic growth.
They also noted that welfare-driven spending has helped improve school enrollment, healthcare access, and livelihood security across multiple communities in the state.
Assembly Proceedings Marked by Clashes
The budget discussion in the West Bengal Legislative Assembly witnessed heated exchanges between ruling party members and opposition legislators. BJP MLAs accused the government of ignoring industrial revival, while TMC members countered by accusing the opposition of politicising social justice.
The confrontations underscore the deep ideological divide between the two parties, especially on questions of development versus welfare-centric governance.
Election Season Intensifies Budget Debate
With state elections on the horizon, the budget has taken on added political significance. Analysts believe the TMC is attempting to consolidate its traditional support base, while the BJP is positioning itself as a party focused on economic growth, investment, and industrialisation.
As campaigning gathers momentum, the budget is expected to remain a central issue in public discourse, reflecting broader debates on governance priorities in a state with diverse social and economic challenges.
