FM Nirmala Sitharaman Slams Congress Over GST, Tobacco Tax Proposal

  • Sept. 3, 2025, 11:57 p.m.

Delhi: Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Tuesday hit out at the Congress party over its stance on the Goods and Services Tax (GST) and its reported demand for a 5% tax on tobacco and gutkha.

“Is the Congress Party demanding five per cent tax on tobacco and gutkha? Congress Party wants us to give it at 5%,” Sitharaman said, questioning the Opposition’s credibility on tax policy.

The Finance Minister recalled that the Congress had earlier deemed GST “impossible to implement,” but under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, the system was successfully rolled out. “We have implemented GST and are also carrying out second-generation reforms to ensure people get relief on their day-to-day items,” she added.

Sitharaman further underlined that the reforms were designed to support MSMEs and labour-intensive industries, enabling easier compliance and boosting economic growth. She accused Congress of adopting a contradictory stance, saying, “Congress should decide whether it wants to oppose or support issues that are in the interest of the people. People will expose you.”

The remarks come amid a broader political tussle over GST slabs, with the government asserting its commitment to balance revenue needs with affordability for common citizens.

Author : Rajdhani Delhi Representative

Rajdhani delhi representative

Related News