Mamata Banerjee Criticizes Union Budget for Ignoring West Bengal

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee criticized the Union Budget, calling it 'anti-poor and politically biased.' She accused the central government of neglecting Bengal’s interests and promised protests if the state's demands are ignored. Banerjee is set to address these issues at an upcoming NITI Aayog meeting.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Tuesday called the Union Budget 'anti-poor and politically biased,' accusing the central government of neglecting the state's interests.

Banerjee expressed disappointment, alleging the Budget was designed to placate NDA allies rather than prioritize public welfare. She pledged protests if the central government continued to ignore Bengal’s demands.

Banerjee, set to attend an upcoming NITI Aayog meeting, stated she would address Bengal's deprivation and dues. 'Bengal has been completely deprived in the Union Budget, which doesn't look into the interest of the poor. The Budget is directionless. It is only to serve a political mission. I don't see any light,' she told reporters.

The TMC leader criticized BJP allies for allegedly sacrificing ministerial positions for financial gains. Banerjee also accused the Centre of withholding MGNREGA funds and discriminating against Bengal in flood relief efforts, noting the state’s cyclone and flood-prone status.

Reacting to Banerjee's comments, senior BJP leader Agnimitra Paul defended the Centre's decision, accusing the TMC government of corruption and failing to provide utilization certificates for central funds.