FM Sitharaman Slams TMC in West Bengal, Says Bombs Overshadow Law and Order
Finance Minister rejects TMC’s Budget claims, highlights security concerns ahead of state polls
New Delhi, Feb 12 : Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Wednesday criticised TMC supremo Mamata Banerjee and her party in the Lok Sabha, alleging that law and order in West Bengal has deteriorated and a “bomb culture” prevails across the state.
Replying to a debate on the Union Budget 2026-27, Sitharaman refuted TMC’s claim that the Budget provides nothing for the state. She also took a dig at the Chief Minister for urging women to stay indoors in the evenings instead of improving security. “Bengal mein bomb chalta hai, kanun nahi chalta (in Bengal, bombs prevail, not law),” she remarked, citing a June 2025 bomb blast in Kaliganj that killed a child and led to the arrest of a TMC leader.
Sitharaman also rebutted claims made by TMC MP Abhishek Banerjee, saying he misled the House regarding GST on items such as milk, stationery, and education, and clarified that there is no GST on funeral services.
The Finance Minister further highlighted that the West Bengal government can participate in several Budget proposals to benefit the state. She also addressed remarks by SP leader Akhilesh Yadav regarding high-speed trains in Uttar Pradesh, noting that two corridors Delhi-Varanasi and Varanasi-Siliguri pass through the state and urged leaders to consider facts before commenting.
