Is PM Modi Taking Credit for GST Reforms After Imposing Hikes?
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Synopsis
Karnataka's Chief Minister Siddaramaiah questions PM Modi's role in GST, accusing him of raising taxes while now claiming credit for reforms. He highlights the struggles of the public under these policies and criticizes BJP's tactics. Explore the implications of these reforms on the economy and the political landscape.
Key Takeaways
- PM Modi was criticized for introducing and raising GST rates.
- Siddaramaiah emphasized the importance of transparency and accountability.
- The Anna Bhagya scheme was highlighted as a key initiative for supporting the poor.
- The BJP's claims of credit for GST reforms have been challenged.
- Public sentiment regarding GST reforms remains divided.
Mysuru, Sep 22 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Karnataka, Siddaramaiah, criticized the Union government on Monday, asserting that it was Prime Minister Narendra Modi who initially implemented the Goods and Services Tax (GST), subsequently increased the rates, and is now attempting to take credit for the modernized GST reforms in India.
"Prime Minister Modi is simply a deceiver. He was the one who introduced GST, who kept hiking the rates, and now he is patting himself on the back for reforms," Siddaramaiah remarked, indirectly targeting the Prime Minister.
While inaugurating the Dasara Food Festival at Maharaja's College Grounds in Mysuru, the Chief Minister questioned, "For the last eight years, it has been PM Modi who excessively collected GST. Will the citizens of India see that money returned?"
"We (Congress) opposed the hike to 18% and 28%. The same party (BJP) that imposed these taxes is now trying to take credit. They are deceiving the public. Do not fall for it," Siddaramaiah warned.
He continued, "To prevent hunger among the impoverished, I initiated the Anna Bhagya scheme, ensuring the provision of 10 kg of rice."
Addressing the controversy regarding Booker Award-winning author Banu Mushtaq inaugurating the Dasara festivities, the Chief Minister noted, "The High Court and the Supreme Court have dismissed such objections. My name embodies two deities — Siddha refers to Shiva, and Rama refers to Vishnu. The Supreme Court rightly advised those opposing Banu Mushtaq to read the Constitution's Preamble."
"Those challenging Banu Mushtaq have been MPs twice, yet they fail to understand that Dasara is our 'Nada Habba' (state festival). They attempted to label me as 'anti-Hindu', but they failed. My name signifies two gods, which makes me a better Hindu than them," he stated.
Criticizing PM Modi over GST reforms, Karnataka's Minister for Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, IT and Biotechnology, Priyank Kharge, expressed on social media platform X, "Gabbar Singh has merely reduced the scale of looting, and now everyone is expected to celebrate. Are we to forget the extensive looting that this Gabbar Singh has carried out for the past eight years? This is the legacy of the central government!"
"The BJP believes that the citizens of this nation are gullible enough to be misled in any manner. But the people are not fools," he added.
"Now they (BJP) wish to host a 'GST Savings Festival', but weren't they commemorating a 'GST Loot Festival' for the past eight years?" Kharge questioned.
"They (BJP) are the ones who pushed people into a pit and now claim credit for providing a ladder to rescue them. The blame for pushing people into the pit for eight years rests solely with PM Modi," he remarked while criticizing the Union government.
"When Rahul Gandhi persistently demanded a reduction in the 'Gabbar Singh Tax', the BJP mocked him. Now, shaken by public discontent, they have reduced GST, yet shamelessly claim the credit!" he added.
"When GST was levied at exorbitant rates, they labeled it a 'masterstroke'. Now, even when GST is lowered, they still call it a 'masterstroke'!" Kharge stated.
"But who will take responsibility for the damage caused to the public and the economy over these eight years? Who will account for the numerous small and medium enterprises that closed down due to GST's impact during this time? Who is accountable for the blows dealt to the economy in these eight years?"
"Who will answer for the job losses during this period? Is PM Modi himself not responsible for all this, BJP Karnataka?" Kharge asked.
Point of View
It's crucial to assess the political dynamics surrounding GST reforms. The ongoing debate highlights the complexities of economic policies and their repercussions on citizens. Understanding both sides provides clarity on how these reforms impact everyday lives, emphasizing the importance of informed discussions.
NationPress
22/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Goods and Services Tax (GST)?
The Goods and Services Tax (GST) is a comprehensive indirect tax levied on the supply of goods and services in India, designed to streamline the taxation process.
Why did Siddaramaiah criticize PM Modi?
Siddaramaiah criticized PM Modi for introducing the GST, raising its rates, and then taking credit for subsequent reforms, arguing that the public deserves accountability.
What is the Anna Bhagya scheme?
The Anna Bhagya scheme is an initiative by Siddaramaiah to provide 10 kg of rice per month to underprivileged families to combat hunger.
What was the response of the Karnataka government to the GST reforms?
The Karnataka government, particularly Siddaramaiah and Minister Priyank Kharge, has expressed strong opposition to the way GST was implemented and raised, believing it harmed the economy.
How did the public react to the GST reforms?
Public reaction has been mixed, with some expressing discontent over high rates while others are skeptical of the government's claims regarding recent reductions.
