GST Reforms: Is the Opposition Being Hypocritical in Their Criticism?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Tejasvi Surya challenges the opposition's contradictory statements on GST reforms.
- The need for consistency in political discourse is emphasized.
- Financial discrepancies in state spending are called into question.
- Surya warns of possible corruption in state procurement processes.
- The importance of media vigilance in government spending is highlighted.
Bengaluru, Sep 4 (NationPress) In response to the opposition and state governments' negative remarks regarding the Centre's GST reforms, BJP Yuva Morcha National President and MP Tejasvi Surya expressed his discontent on Thursday, calling for an end to hypocrisy at all levels.
Speaking to the media after a press conference at the BJP state office, Jagannath Bhavan in Bengaluru, Surya remarked: "To all state governments that are criticizing the GST reforms announced on September 3, I pose a specific question. Why did you not voice your opposition yesterday during the GST meeting? These decisions were made unanimously by the council, which means all of you were part of that discussion."
He continued, stating, "You cannot have one stance when you are behind closed doors and switch to another when in front of the cameras. Consistency in your politics and principles is essential; hypocrisy should not be tolerated at any level."
Surya pointed out that senior Congress leader P. Chidambaram had previously opposed the introduction of Digital India and the original GST. He emphasized that opposing decisions at this late stage simply for the sake of opposition does not merit a dignified response.
Regarding the state government's contemplation of acquiring private helicopters, Tejasvi Surya stated, "The state government claims it lacks sufficient funds to repair potholes in Bengaluru. When our government was in power, we were providing scholarships for farmers' children through the 'Raita Vidya Nidhi' scheme, which the current state government halted, citing a lack of funds. When it comes to farmers' welfare, they claim to be broke.
"They have no funds for children's education or pothole repairs in Bengaluru, yet they can afford luxury helicopters and private jets for the Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister."
Surya urged the media to closely monitor the entire tender process for these purchases, expressing suspicion that this could lead to another Augusta Westland chopper scam under the guise of acquiring private helicopters in Karnataka.