Opposition reactions to Union Budget 2026 highlight deep political divides, with West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee delivering some of the sharpest criticism, labeling it a "Humpty Dumpty budget" implying a great fall—mirroring the stock market plunge where Sensex dropped over 1,600 points in afternoon trade and Nirmala Sitharaman presented her ninth consecutive budget. Banerjee called it "directionless, visionless, actionless and anti-people," further accusing it of being anti-women, anti-farmer, anti-education, and against SC, ST, and OBC communities. Her strongest jab was that the Centre allocated "not a single paisa for Bengal," underscoring regional grievances in federal funding. Congress echoed the sentiment, describing the budget as "totally lacklustre" and falling short of hype, offering nothing for farmers or youth employment. The criticism came amid broader opposition discontent with perceived neglect of key social sectors and regional needs.

On the government side, Prime Minister Narendra Modi hailed it as "historic," reflecting aspirations of 140 crore Indians, strengthening reforms, and charting a roadmap for Viksit Bharat by 2047, giving the "reform express new energy and momentum." Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman proposed a high-level committee on banking for Viksit Bharat and indirect tax measures simplifying tariffs, supporting manufacturing, exports, and correcting duty inversions. Moody's Ratings described it as "tactical" but not a "breakthrough." The budget was presented amid global uncertainties, trade frictions, and US tariffs impacting Indian exports. Market reaction was volatile, with initial sharp declines partially recovered. In my view, polarized responses typical of budgets in coalition era—opposition highlighting exclusions, government emphasizing long-term vision. Hoping constructive dialogue addresses regional concerns fostering cooperative federalism balanced development diverse nation.

Vibe View: Oh man, the vibe around Mamata Banerjee's "Humpty Dumpty" jab at Budget 2026 is fiery and unapologetic, like a regional leader throwing down the gauntlet against perceived central neglect—it's got that raw political passion energy we've come to expect from her, you know? Calling it directionless visionless actionless anti-people vibe hits hard, especially "not a single paisa for Bengal" vibe pure frustration federal funding imbalances many states feel. Linking market crash "great fall" vibe clever witty tying economic reaction political critique. Opposition Congress "lacklustre" vibe echoes shared disappointment farmers youth employment marginalized communities vibe valid concerns social priorities. Government Modi "historic" Viksit Bharat vibe proud aspirational reform momentum vibe confident long-term vision. Moody's "tactical" vibe neutral observer measured not revolutionary. Overall vibe deeply polarized—opposition vibe excluded aggrieved government vibe forward-looking inclusive 140 crore aspirations. Global uncertainties US tariffs context vibe external pressures amplifying domestic divides. Positive vibe hope dialogue addresses grievances cooperative federalism. It's that classic Indian budget drama vibe high stakes regional national pulling different directions yet shared goal prosperity. Hoping vibe cools constructive engagement benefiting diverse nation beyond rhetoric.