Nirmala Sitharaman Criticises TMC Over Law and Order, GST Remarks in Lok Sabha Budget Debate

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Wednesday strongly criticised the West Bengal government during her reply to the Union Budget 2026–27 debate in the Lok Sabha, responding to remarks made by Trinamool Congress (TMC) MP Abhishek Banerjee.

GST and Political Exchange

Sitharaman objected to Banerjee’s comment suggesting that GST applied “even after death to light an incense stick,” calling the statement misleading. She said such claims created unnecessary confusion about the Goods and Services Tax framework.

The exchange marked one of several sharp moments during the Budget discussion, as both sides accused each other of misrepresentation.

Law and Order Concerns

The Finance Minister also targeted the Mamata Banerjee-led administration over law and order issues in West Bengal. Referring to the RG Kar rape case and other incidents of violence against women, she questioned the state government’s handling of such matters.

She further alleged a deterioration in governance, stating that public safety remained a serious concern.

Fuel Prices and Governance

Sitharaman raised the issue of fuel pricing in the state, claiming that petrol prices in West Bengal were higher compared to several other regions. She argued that the state government could provide relief to consumers by adjusting local levies.

Dankuni–Surat Freight Corridor

Addressing criticism over the mention of Dankuni in the Budget speech, Sitharaman defended the Centre’s proposal for a new dedicated freight corridor connecting Dankuni in West Bengal to Surat in Gujarat.

She clarified that the proposed corridor was distinct from earlier railway announcements made during Mamata Banerjee’s tenure as Railway Minister, stating that the current proposal represents a new infrastructure initiative aimed at strengthening east-west connectivity.

Key Budget Highlights

In her address, Sitharaman also outlined major provisions of the Union Budget 2026–27. She stated that effective capital expenditure for FY27, including support to states and Union Territories, has been pegged at ₹17.1 lakh crore — approximately 4.4% of GDP.

The Budget emphasises infrastructure development, industrial growth, logistics expansion, skilling initiatives and investments in artificial intelligence education. Sitharaman said the Centre remains open to collaborating with states on mega textile parks and entrepreneurship programs as part of the broader “Viksit Bharat” vision.

The Lok Sabha began discussions on the Budget earlier this week. Sitharaman is expected to reply to the debate in the Rajya Sabha on Thursday.