West Bengal’s legislative calendar is set: an interim budget for FY 2026-27 drops February 2, presented by Minister Chandrima Bhattacharya during a whirlwind assembly session starting January 31. Ending February 5, it’s designed for efficiency in turbulent times.
Assembly chief Biman Banerjee’s announcement sets the stage for what could be a powder keg of debates. With opposition BJP sharpening its critiques, the ruling TMC faces scrutiny on fiscal health and welfare commitments.
Key under the spotlight: expansions to Lakshmir Bhandar, the women-centric monthly stipend scheme that’s become synonymous with state largesse. Additional provisions here could bolster TMC’s voter base ahead of uncertainties.
Cabinet deliberations precede the event, but Bhattacharya takes the podium this round—not Banerjee, diverging from past precedents like the 2021 full budget. This choice hints at delegation amid a packed leadership slate.
Storm clouds gather over the session, fueled by the winter recess’s cancellation due to election process overhauls. TMC points fingers at BJP and EC for orchestration, heightening animosities.
Beyond balancesheets, this budget session encapsulates West Bengal’s polarized polity. It offers a platform to air grievances, showcase achievements, and forecast fiscal directions—potentially igniting broader confrontations.