Did Shiv Sena’s Sanjay Nirupam Praise PM Modi's GST 2.0 Reforms?

Mumbai, Sep 4 (NationPress) Shiv Sena leader and spokesperson Sanjay Nirupam praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi's recent reform of the Goods and Services Tax (GST), stating that the changes made under GST 2.0 have greatly simplified the taxation framework.

In a discussion with IANS, Nirupam remarked: "Upon the introduction of GST in 2017, the system was new, leading to the emergence of flaws initially. Now, after eight years, the PM Modi administration has made a significant move by reducing GST to only two slabs—5 percent and 18 percent—thereby simplifying the entire framework and offering much-needed relief to traders, the middle class, and small businesses."

He criticized the Congress party, pointing out that the same faction that once sought GST reform is now opposing it.

“This is a substantial advancement for the public's interest,” he added.

Addressing the Congress's assertion that Rahul Gandhi should be acknowledged for the rationalization of GST rates, Nirupam stated: "Democracy involves listening to all perspectives. If Rahul Gandhi or any opposition figure voiced concerns on behalf of traders, that is their duty. However, it is the government that took a constructive approach and implemented these changes. This is not a win for an individual—it's a triumph for democracy."

He underscored that democracy thrives when both the ruling party and the opposition collaborate for the public good.

"True democracy is characterized by responsiveness to the people's voice and unity on national matters," he emphasized.

Nirupam also commented on the escalating Maratha reservation situation in Maharashtra. With OBC leaders threatening statewide protests and senior NCP leader Chhagan Bhujbal considering legal action over the issuance of Kunbi caste certificates to Marathas, he called for balance and understanding.

"The Maratha community is entitled to reservation. Activist Manoj Jarange recently came to Mumbai with representatives from his community and staged a hunger strike. The government accepted six of his eight demands. The primary demand was to enforce the Nizam-era Hyderabad gazetteer, classifying Marathas as OBCs," he noted.

He added that the government has issued OBC certificates to over 8 lakh Maratha youths and ensured that existing OBC quotas remain intact.

"It’s about providing Maratha youth with opportunities through education while respecting the rights of the OBC community," Nirupam expressed.

Regarding the five-hour bandh observed in Bihar in protest against the alleged derogatory remarks aimed at Prime Minister Modi’s mother by Congress members during the election campaign, Nirupam commented: "The election outcome in Bihar is nearly decided, yet the Congress has yet to grasp the reality. Tejashwi Yadav recognized the situation, but Rahul Gandhi has undermined a campaign that was progressing well for the RJD. The offensive remarks aimed at PM Modi’s mother have deeply offended the women of Bihar. This incident triggered the bandh and has culturally and emotionally backfired on Congress and the RJD."

"Bihar is home to respectful and cultured individuals. Such language will not be tolerated. This error has clearly shifted momentum toward the NDA," he concluded.