Will the West Bengal Interim Budget Be Revealed in Assembly on February 2?
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Synopsis
The West Bengal government is gearing up for its interim budget presentation on February 2, 2026. With discussions already brewing regarding welfare allocations, particularly for women, the session is expected to be contentious. Will the budget address the pressing needs of the state's populace amidst political tensions?
Key Takeaways
- The interim budget for FY 2026-27 will be presented on February 2.
- Chandrima Bhattacharya will present the budget instead of the Chief Minister.
- The budget session will run from January 31 to February 5.
- Political tensions are expected to escalate during the session.
- Focus on women’s welfare initiatives is anticipated.
Kolkata, Jan 21 (NationPress) The West Bengal government's interim budget for the fiscal year 2026-27 is set to be unveiled in the state Assembly by Minister of State for Finance (Independent Charge) Chandrima Bhattacharya on February 2.
The budget session will commence on January 31, with the interim budget being presented on February 2, as announced by Speaker Biman Bandopadhyay during a press briefing.
This budget session will be notably brief, concluding on February 5. It remains uncertain whether the interim budget will include any announcements regarding increased funding for various welfare initiatives, particularly the Lakshmir Bhandar project, which provides monthly allowances to women in West Bengal.
It is worth noting that prior to the 2021 West Bengal Assembly elections, a comprehensive budget for the fiscal year 2021-22 was presented, with Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee delivering the budget speech herself.
Additionally, a special meeting of the state Cabinet is scheduled before the interim budget presentation on February 2.
This time, however, the budget will be presented by Chandrima Bhattacharya instead of the Chief Minister, as per sources within the state government.
Expectations are high for a tumultuous budget session, particularly due to anticipated heated exchanges between Trinamool Congress and Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) members.
The winter session of the West Bengal Assembly was not conducted this year due to an ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) in the state. The Trinamool Congress has criticized the Election Commission of India and the BJP, alleging collusion in the revision process to favor the ruling party at the center.
Given the ongoing tensions between the West Bengal government and the ECI concerning this revision, the upcoming budget session is expected to be quite turbulent.
Point of View
The upcoming interim budget presentation in West Bengal represents a critical moment for both the state government and its constituents. It highlights the ongoing political dynamics that can significantly influence welfare policies and public sentiment. The focus on women’s welfare through schemes like Lakshmir Bhandar is commendable, yet it also underscores the need for transparency and accountability in governance.
NationPress
22/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the date of the West Bengal interim budget presentation?
The interim budget will be presented on February 2, 2026.
Who will present the interim budget?
The interim budget will be presented by Minister of State for Finance, Chandrima Bhattacharya.
What is the Lakshmir Bhandar project?
The Lakshmir Bhandar project is a monthly dole scheme aimed at providing financial support to women in West Bengal.
When does the budget session start?
The budget session will commence on January 31, 2026.
Why was the winter session of the Assembly not held?
The winter session was not conducted due to the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) in the state.
