GST Reform: Manipur's Unique Economic Struggles Under National Tax
Manipur Congress president Keisham Meghachandra calls for a revised GST to better accommodate the state’s unique economic challenges. Highlighting the 'one-size-fits-all' tax's shortcomings, he urges a region-sensitive review to restore financial flexibility for states like Manipur and address digital and infrastructural discrepancies.
- Country:
- India
In a bold statement, Manipur Congress President Keisham Meghachandra critiqued the Goods and Services Tax (GST) system for its neglect of Manipur's distinct economic landscape. He outlined how GST's 'one-size-fits-all' approach undermines small, socio-economically fragile states, stripping them of financial autonomy and complicating local industries' tax exemptions.
Keisham emphasized the digital divide within Manipur, stressing that limited internet connectivity hampers compliance with the GST's online-based framework. These challenges pose substantial obstacles for small traders, artisans, and rural entrepreneurs, threatening their competitiveness under uniform tax slabs.
Appealing for policy reforms, Keisham urged the central government to amend GST through a region-sensitive lens. He called for differentiated tax slabs, timely compensation, and simplified compliance for economically disadvantaged states like Manipur, advocating for a louder regional voice in national tax debates.
(With inputs from agencies.)
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