Karnataka CM Criticizes Modi's GST Crediting

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has openly criticized Prime Minister Narendra Modi for claiming credit for the recent Goods and Services Tax (GST) reforms introduced on Monday. Siddaramaiah labeled Modi's move as "deceptive" during his speech at the Dasara food festival held at Maharaja's College Grounds. He questioned whether Modi intends to return the excessive GST collected over the past eight years back to Indians.

Siddaramaiah accused the Prime Minister of misleading the public by simultaneously implementing, increasing, and taking credit for GST rates. He emphasized that they opposed the raise to 18% and 28%, warning the public not to fall for such 'deception.' IT Minister Priyank Kharge echoed these criticisms, labeling the reforms as "too little and too late." Kharge stated that it took eight years for Modi, referred to as 'Vishwaguru,' to acknowledge the error, highlighting past concerns voiced by politicians like Rahul Gandhi.

Kharge argued that these policies adversely affected small businesses and led to unemployment, an issue the government should acknowledge. He questioned why there is public celebration over GST relaxations, pointing out that it is taxpayers' money being returned. Dismissing BJP's promotional terms like 'GST Utsav,' Kharge criticized the symbolic gestures of relief after years of harm, asserting that they were insufficient and delayed.

(With inputs from agencies.)