The BJP criticized West Bengal for having the slowest consumption growth rate among all states, indicating a weak economic situation. Amit Malviya, BJP’s Information Technology Cell Chief for West Bengal, highlighted that the state has experienced the slowest consumption increase in the country during the Trinamool Congress regime of the past 12 years. Notably, even the urban elite in West Bengal have seen a decline in their spending levels since 2011–12, the first fiscal year under the Trinamool Congress.
Malviya emphasized that the decline in consumption among the urban elite, who typically drive economic growth and investments, is a concerning economic trend. He attributed this situation to Mamata Banerjee’s governance style, citing a hostile business environment, policy inaction, and a focus on patronage over economic progress. Malviya stressed that a decrease in consumption signals economic stagnation, calling for a change in West Bengal’s economic trajectory.
Economic experts in the state echoed Malviya’s views, pointing to reasons such as limited big investments, stagnant economic growth, and policies hindering industrial and service sector development. They noted that the state’s policies on land acquisition for industries and the absence of Special Economic Zones have deterred investments, particularly in the IT sector. Additionally, the heavy reliance on state excise for revenue generation has further highlighted the economic challenges faced by West Bengal.
