CM Mamata slams Centre after Bengal Budget, raises questions on Kumbh stampede & BJP’s poll tactics

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee presented the Bengal Budget 2025, emphasizing employment, welfare, and housing schemes. She claimed that despite the central government’s alleged financial neglect, the state had introduced a universal budget to ensure development. She criticized the Centre for withholding funds meant for Bengal, stating, "Currently, there is only one tax—the GST. The central government takes everything away, but we do not receive our rightful share." She also alleged that the 100-day work scheme and rural road projects were halted due to the Centre's actions.

During the press conference, Mamata Banerjee raised concerns over the Kumbh Mela stampede, questioning why the exact number of casualties had not been disclosed. She alleged "complete mismanagement" at the event and criticized the Centre’s silence. No official response has been issued by the central government regarding her remarks. Additionally, she accused the BJP of using the Delhi elections to push a political narrative while neglecting key governance issues.

A key announcement in the budget was the launch of the 'Banglar Bari' scheme, modeled after the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana. Under this initiative, 16 lakh new beneficiaries will receive housing assistance, with an additional ₹9,600 crore allocated. Mamata Banerjee stated that around ₹1,400-1,500 crore is required, and half has already been disbursed. The remaining funds will be released by June 2025, while the first installment for new beneficiaries will be provided by December 2025.

The budget also reaffirmed the state’s commitment to the Lakshmir Bhandar scheme, benefiting 2.21 crore women, with an annual expenditure of ₹50,000 crore. Mamata Banerjee alleged that BJP-ruled states had replicated similar welfare schemes for electoral gains while imposing restrictions that Bengal does not. She stated, "Our Lakshmir Bhandar is for everyone. Unlike others, we do not exclude beneficiaries based on bike ownership or income limits."

Despite financial constraints, Mamata Banerjee assured that Bengal would continue funding welfare schemes and infrastructure projects. She said, "If anyone is still left out of this list and wants to apply, we will include them gradually. We do not want to deprive anyone because having a roof over one’s head is deeply rooted in people's lives." The Bengal government maintains that it is fulfilling its commitments despite what it describes as financial hurdles from the Centre.