TMC's Abhishek Banerjee Claims Budget Favors Only Two States

Trinamool Congress leader Abhishek Banerjee criticised Prime Minister Narendra Modi's coalition government, calling it "creaky, shaky and vulnerable." He argued that the budget presented by Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman favours only two states, neglecting the rest of the country. Banerjee made these remarks during a discussion on the Budget 2024-25.

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Claims of Neglect and Betrayal

Banerjee asserted that the budget lacks vision and fails to provide relief to common people. He accused the NDA government of betraying citizens, farmers, housewives, and daily wage earners. According to him, prices of essential commodities have risen, household savings have decreased, and debts have increased. He described the budget as representing betrayal, unemployment, deprivation, and tragedies.

The TMC leader also claimed that the BJP has failed to fulfil its promises, including providing 2 crore jobs to youths. He said the Modi government has deprived West Bengal and other regions of benefits like MNERGA and housing schemes. Banerjee alleged that since the BJP could not defeat them politically in West Bengal, they are now conspiring against the state's people.

Accusations Against BJP

Banerjee highlighted that the BJP does not have a single Muslim MP in Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha, or any state assemblies, indicating a lack of diversity within the party. He also criticised the government's handling of issues like black money, terrorism, and providing free houses to the poor. He claimed that decisions such as unplanned lockdowns, farm laws, and demonetisation led to deaths, job losses, and economic despair.

He further stated that the budget failed to address significant issues like ethnic violence in Manipur. Banerjee argued that the results of the 2024 general elections would be a rejection of BJP's arrogance and divisive politics. He noted that while ministers retained their portfolios in Modi's third term, the number of cheerleaders for the ruling party has decreased.

Counterarguments from BJP

In response to Banerjee's remarks, BJP's Bansuri Swaraj accused him of using objectionable and unparliamentary language. She demanded an apology from him. Speaker Om Birla said he would examine the matter and urged members not to challenge the Chair in their speeches.

Union Minister G Kishan Reddy countered Banerjee's claims by stating that his criticisms apply more to the West Bengal government than to the central government. Reddy defended the NDA government's actions and policies against Banerjee's allegations.

Banerjee concluded his speech by reiterating his stance that Modi's coalition government is on shaky ground and will soon collapse. He maintained that the budget is anti-people and primarily serves to appease coalition partners rather than addressing the needs of 140 crore citizens.

The debate on Budget 2024-25 continues with strong opinions from both sides. The TMC leader's accusations have sparked significant reactions from BJP members, highlighting deep political divisions.