Did the Centre Offer GST Reform as a Diwali Gift While K'taka Gave a Pothole-Model?

Bengaluru, Sept 20 (NationPress) BJP National Spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla criticized the Congress-led Karnataka government, stating that while the Union government presented GST reforms as a 'Diwali bonanza', the state government has delivered a 'pothole-model'.

During a press conference held at the State BJP office, Jagannath Bhavan in Bengaluru, Poonawalla remarked: "On the inaugural day of Navratri, September 22, the nation will embrace a simplified GST framework. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman have offered the country a Diwali gift ahead of the festival."

He emphasized that the revamped GST structure would significantly aid the middle class by reducing tax slabs.

Poonawalla clarified that this is not a 'Gabbar Singh Tax', as some detractors have termed it, but rather a 'Good and Simple Tax', aiming to enhance savings and lower taxes for citizens.

He explained, "Previously, states had various tax systems. GST was introduced eight years ago with four slabs. Starting September 22, this will be streamlined to two slabs (5 percent and 18 percent). Ninety-nine products that previously had a 12 percent GST will now be classified under the 5 percent slab. Most items that were subjected to a 28 percent slab will transition to the 18 percent slab, leading to a decrease in prices for these goods," the BJP leader stated.

Poonawalla further mentioned: "The Central government is dedicated to enhancing metro connectivity, upgrading public transport, increasing the income tax exemption limit to Rs 12 lakh, and lowering interest rates on home and education loans. Inflation has also been kept to a minimum."

"Conversely, Karnataka suffers from a pothole-model government. There have been incidents of looting through price hikes and various scams, such as those involving the Mysuru Urban Development Authority, Valmiki Corporation, and excise. The costs of essential items, including stamp duty, water, milk, petrol, and diesel, have risen. This government is not only about looting but also about deceit," he asserted.

He claimed that promises made during elections are unfulfilled, and despite high taxes, the populace continues to grapple with potholes and inadequate infrastructure.

Poonawalla accused Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar and Chief Minister Siddaramaiah of being embroiled in a power struggle.

"In contrast, we have the Modi-model government, which is devoid of looting and deception. It is a government that fortifies the nation and uplifts the middle class. It stands in support of farmers, youth, and MSMEs," he added.

Poonawalla asserted that the Central government is focused on fortifying India's economy.

"Some individuals who have faltered in politics claim our economy is on the brink of collapse. However, in reality, India's economy was once fragile, and under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman over the past 11 years, it has evolved into the world's fourth-strongest economy. It is also among the fastest-growing, boasting a GDP growth rate of 7.5 percent," he added.

He noted: "Inflation, which once soared in double digits, has now plummeted to around two percent, the lowest level. The NPAs are at a minimum, the nation holds $703 billion in foreign exchange reserves, and exports have surged. India's credit rating has also improved."

Quoting data from the EPFO (Employees' Provident Fund Organisation), he indicated that unemployment has reached its lowest levels.

Over the past decade, 25 crore individuals have been lifted above the poverty line, the BJP leader stated.

"Those from the darbari generation are receiving a fitting response," he remarked.

Poonawalla expressed that it was indeed a privilege for him to be in Karnataka during the inauguration of the press conference.

Present at the event were State BJP general secretary and MP Captain Brijesh Chowta, Legislative Council chief whip N. Ravikumar, former MP Muniswamy, Bengaluru South district president and MLA C.K. Ramamurthy, state spokesperson Surabhi Hodigere, state convener of the economic cell Prashanth G.S., and state media convener Karunakar Khasale.