The Budget Session of the West Bengal Legislative Assembly commenced on a stormy note this Thursday, marked by unprecedented drama. Governor CV Ananda Bose concluded his customary address in a mere four and a half minutes before exiting the House. Before leaving, the Governor was seen having a prolonged private conversation with Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, sparking intense political speculation.

The session began with a heated slogan war. Immediately after the National Anthem, BJP MLAs raised chants of “Bharat Mata Ki Jai,” which were promptly countered by “Joy Bangla” slogans from the TMC benches. Amidst the chaos, the Governor delivered a truncated version of his speech. Leader of the Opposition, Suvendu Adhikari, claimed that the Governor deliberately avoided reading the “bundle of lies” prepared by the state government.

In a sarcastic move, Suvendu Adhikari applauded the Governor as he exited the chamber, offering him “congratulations.” The opposition argues that the Governor’s decision to cut short the speech reflects his reluctance to endorse the state’s claims. However, the private meeting between the Governor and the CM just before the budget presentation has added a new layer of mystery to the ongoing tussle between the Raj Bhavan and the Secretariat. All eyes are now on the Finance Minister as the formal budget presentation follows this chaotic start.