TMC MPs Stage Protest Walkout in Rajya Sabha Over West Bengal's Financial Dues
In a dramatic display of protest, Members of Parliament from the Trinamool Congress (TMC) staged a walkout from the Rajya Sabha on Thursday, voicing strong objections over what they termed as the "systematic neglect" of West Bengal in the recently presented Union Budget. The MPs highlighted the issue of pending financial dues owed by the Central government to the state, which they claim have accumulated to significant amounts, adversely affecting development projects and welfare schemes in West Bengal.
Allegations of Budgetary Neglect and Unpaid Dues
The TMC parliamentarians argued that the Union Budget for the fiscal year 2024-25 failed to address the financial needs of West Bengal adequately, despite the state's contributions to the national economy. They pointed out that several key allocations and schemes that could benefit the state were either underfunded or entirely overlooked. "This budget continues the pattern of ignoring West Bengal's legitimate demands," one MP stated during the session, emphasizing that the state has been waiting for the clearance of dues related to various centrally sponsored schemes, GST compensation, and other financial transfers.
The walkout was not merely a symbolic gesture but a calculated move to draw national attention to the growing rift between the Centre and the state. The TMC MPs asserted that the pending dues, which reportedly run into thousands of crores of rupees, are crippling the state's ability to implement essential infrastructure projects, healthcare initiatives, and educational programs. They called for immediate intervention from the Union Finance Ministry to release the funds, warning that further delays could exacerbate the financial strain on West Bengal.
Political Implications and Broader Context
This protest comes at a time when political tensions between the TMC and the ruling BJP at the Centre are already high, with frequent clashes over governance and fiscal policies. The walkout in the Rajya Sabha underscores the deepening concerns over fiscal federalism in India, where states often complain of unequal treatment in budget allocations and delayed disbursements. Analysts suggest that such actions could influence public opinion in West Bengal, especially with upcoming local elections, as the TMP positions itself as a defender of the state's interests against perceived central apathy.
In response to the walkout, other political parties in the Rajya Sabha offered mixed reactions. While some opposition members expressed solidarity with the TMC's demands, others called for a more collaborative approach to resolve financial disputes. The government, on its part, has maintained that all dues are being processed as per established protocols, but the TMC MPs remain skeptical, insisting on transparency and expedited action.
The incident highlights the ongoing challenges in Centre-state financial relations in India, where disputes over funds can lead to parliamentary disruptions and political grandstanding. As West Bengal awaits the clearance of its dues, the walkout serves as a stark reminder of the need for smoother coordination and fairer distribution of resources to ensure balanced regional development across the country.
