Why is Delhi CM Rekha Gupta Criticizing Atishi for Missing GST Council Meeting?

New Delhi, Aug 8 (NationPress) In a pointed critique of her predecessor, Atishi, Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Friday presented the Delhi Goods and Services Tax (Amendment) Bill 2025 in the Delhi Legislative Assembly, reinforcing the government's dedication to streamlining tax administration.

CM Gupta, who also oversees the finance department, vehemently condemned former Delhi Finance Minister Atishi for questioning GST reforms that were approved during meetings she failed to attend.

“She is now interrogating reforms she neither participated in nor contributed to. It is regrettable that someone who was entrusted with Delhi’s finances chose to remain absent during critical discussions,” stated CM Gupta.

Additionally, she highlighted that Atishi missed the 55th GST Council Meeting, where these reforms were ratified, along with several prior sessions.

The Chief Minister remarked that had the previous administration honored institutional protocols, Delhi could have experienced even greater benefits.

CM Gupta clarified that the amendments proposed in the Bill align the Delhi GST Act with the reforms enacted in the Central GST Act by the Central Government, ensuring uniformity in tax regulations across the country.

“This initiative aims to promote simplification, transparency, and fairness for taxpayers. Our goal is to bolster business confidence while ensuring efficient revenue management,” expressed CM Rekha Gupta during the bill's presentation.

She commended the Revenue Department for its diligent execution of these intricate reforms and reiterated her administration’s vision for a compliant, effective, and business-friendly taxation landscape.

“The Delhi Government under my guidance is devoted to fostering a strong tax ecosystem that facilitates both governance and economic growth,” she stated.

CM Gupta also addressed misunderstandings regarding Delhi’s revenue authority, clarifying, “Delhi is a Union Territory. The Centre manages income tax, customs, and corporate taxes, whereas we oversee GST, VAT, Excise, and Stamp Duty.”

She expressed gratitude to the Central Government for continuing to cover the costs of law enforcement, pensions, Metro operations, and significant urban development initiatives. “From Delhi Police salaries to pensions amounting to Rs 6,000 crore, from the Metro Rail to Central Universities, Delhi receives more than its fair share. It is the Centre that guarantees Delhi operates smoothly, regardless of political circumstances,” she declared.