West Bengal Assembly sees uproar as budget discussion ends in BJP walkout

The discussion on the state budget in the West Bengal Assembly on Friday descended into a fierce political confrontation between the ruling Trinamool Congress and the opposition Bharatiya Janata Party. While the treasury benches defended the budget as pro-people and inclusive, the BJP strongly criticised it as populist, discriminatory, and aimed at securing electoral advantage. The debate quickly turned acrimonious, marked by sharp exchanges, slogans, and repeated disruptions.

Leader of Opposition Suvendu Adhikari accused Minister of State for Finance Chandrima Bhattacharya of insulting BJP MLA Ashok Lahiri and alleged that the ruling party was deliberately stifling the voice of the opposition inside the House. Responding to the allegations, Chandrima Bhattacharya made a sarcastic remark, stating, “I heard that Ashok Lahiri read my budget speech until 4 AM.” The comment further inflamed BJP legislators, who reacted with loud protests and raised slogans during the proceedings.

As tensions escalated, BJP MLAs, led by Suvendu Adhikari, shouted slogans of “Chandrima down, down” and accused the government of adopting a dictatorial attitude. The sustained uproar ultimately culminated in a walkout by BJP legislators, bringing the budget discussion to a turbulent halt.