As West Bengal gears up for Assembly elections, the Union Budget 2026 presented on February 1 made big infrastructure promises for the state. The budget announced a new freight corridor from Dankuni to Surat, an East Coast Industrial Corridor anchored at Durgapur, and tourism projects under the Purvodaya vision. These steps aim to boost development and industrial growth in Bengal. The BJP hailed these proposals as proof of its focus on development-led politics in the eastern region. The Dankuni–Surat freight corridor is seen as a move to cut logistics costs and promote eco-friendly cargo transport. Additionally, plans for 4,000 e-buses and new tourism spots highlight urban mobility and job creation. However, the ruling TMC criticized the budget sharply. TMC national general secretary Abhishek Banerjee called it a "political signalling tool" and accused the BJP of withholding funds despite headline announcements. He challenged the Centre to prove it has transferred MGNREGA payments since 2021 and described budget promises as "old decisions wrapped in a new packet." TMC leader Jaiprakash Majumdar expressed doubts over actual spending before elections. Conversely, BJP’s Rahul Sinha stressed the economic benefits, saying improved connectivity would bring jobs and investments, especially in north and western Bengal. The budget’s Bengal focus aligns with BJP’s election strategy, which targets resource allocation and fights alleged corruption in the state government. Union Home Minister Amit Shah had also accused the TMC of neglecting north Bengal before the budget. Experts note that in election years, Union Budgets are closely watched for political signals. Announcements on infrastructure and welfare are seen as promises voters will judge for credibility. This budget mixes economic planning with clear political intent as West Bengal approaches the polls.