TMC Leader Abhishek Banerjee Challenges PM Modi on Bengal Fund Delay

Abhishek Banerjee, National General Secretary of the Trinamool Congress (TMC), on Sunday launched a sharp attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi, urging him to release the pending ₹2 lakh crore central dues owed to West Bengal before speaking about the welfare of its people. Addressing an election rally at Sagar Island in South 24 Parganas district, Banerjee questioned the Centre’s commitment to the state, alleging prolonged delays in fund disbursement. “I am telling the honourable PM with all respect, please speak like the Prime Minister. I wish you a long life. Please facilitate sending the ₹2 lakh crore dues you failed to release for Bengal over the last few years,” Banerjee said during his address. He further criticized the Prime Minister’s promises, stating that “Modi’s guarantee” effectively translates to “zero guarantee,” while asserting that Mamata Banerjee has consistently delivered on her commitments to the people. The remarks come amid heightened political activity in the state, with both the ruling TMC and the BJP intensifying their campaigns ahead of upcoming elections. The issue of pending central funds has remained a major point of contention between the state and the Centre, often dominating political discourse in West Bengal.