‘Garbage of Lies, No Paisa for Bengal’: Mamata on Budget

February 1, 2026

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee launched a sharp attack on the Union Budget 2026–27, presented by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman in Parliament, calling it a “garbage of lies” with not a single paisa allocated for Bengal. Banerjee’s criticism reflects growing opposition to the central government’s fiscal plan just months ahead of the West Bengal assembly elections. She said the Budget was “directionless, visionless and anti-people” and had failed to offer meaningful support to her state.

Allegation of Financial Neglect

Speaking to reporters before departing from Kolkata to New Delhi, Mamata Banerjee alleged that the Budget ignored West Bengal’s needs and did nothing to address pressing issues such as rising prices, unemployment and social welfare concerns. She claimed that despite contributing significantly to national finances, her state received no substantial funds or targeted allocations for development or welfare schemes.

Political Context Ahead of Elections

Banerjee’s remarks come amid heightened political tensions in West Bengal, where the Trinamool Congress (TMC) is preparing for upcoming assembly elections. She branded the Budget “anti-women, anti-farmer and anti-education”, arguing it failed to priorities vulnerable groups and essential services. Her criticism also underscores broader claims from the opposition that the fiscal plan favoured other regions ahead of key electoral contests.

Response to Central Government Claims

Mamata also questioned the central government’s assertions about fund transfers and development support, insisting that no significant financial releases had been made for Bengal despite statements to the contrary from some federal officials. She criticized the Union government for what she described as a lack of vision and substance in framing the Budget.