New Delhi [India], September 21 (ANI): Hours after Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation on the eve of the implementation of the new Goods and Services Tax (GST) reforms, Congress General Secretary KC Venugopal on Sunday described it as a “desperate attempt” to take credit for a belated move that only alleviates the “deep pain inflicted on the poor and middle classes.”
In a post on social media X, Venugopal wrote that it would have been “fitting” if the Prime Minister had apologized for the “trauma” inflicted on people from 2017 to 2025. “PM Modi’s 5 p.m. address was a desperate attempt at taking credit for a belated move that only takes away the deep pain he inflicted on the poor and middle classes of India. It would have been fitting if he also apologized for the trauma he inflicted on the people from 2017 to 2025,” the post read.
He further stated that the party had consistently advocated for a single, low GST rate and would continue to push for further reforms to relieve Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). “We have continuously argued for a single, low rate—instead of a cumbersome four-tier Gabbar Singh Tax. We will continue to fight for further GST reforms that are much needed to bring respite to MSMEs, as well as to uphold fiscal federalism within the GST structure. Highly cumbersome filing procedures burdening MSMEs should be eased. Compensation cess for states must be extended to ensure that states don’t lose out on their fair share of GST. Key sectors worst impacted by the global economic turmoil, especially textiles, agriculture, fisheries, and tourism, must be given special protection,” the post added.
Venugopal emphasized that while the battle for a fairer GST would continue, the first step was to undo the damage caused by the central government.
Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the implementation of next-generation GST reforms from September 22, calling it a major step toward the Aatmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan. Addressing the nation ahead of the rollout, PM Modi said the reforms would initiate a countrywide “GST Bachat Utsav,” benefiting the poor, middle class, farmers, traders, and entrepreneurs alike. “From the sunrise of the very first day of Navratri, the nation is taking another important and major step towards the Aatmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan. Tomorrow, on the first day of Navratri, September 22, along with the rising of Suryadev, the Next Generation GST Reforms will come into effect,” he said. (ANI)
About The Author
