Consensus Reigns at GST Council, Asserts Finance Minister

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman clarified that decisions at the GST Council were made with the consensus of all states, countering claims of unilateral decisions. She addressed concerns raised by Tamil Nadu and highlighted the fair distribution of funds and revenue-sharing between the Centre and states.

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Thursday emphasized that decisions at the Goods and Services Tax (GST) Council meetings were made with the agreement of all states and not imposed unilaterally.

Sitharaman responded sharply to the ruling DMK's claims that Tamil Nadu received only 29 paise for every rupee sent to the Centre, asserting that the state received a substantial share of funds.

She explained that the GST Council, comprising ministers from various states, reached all decisions by consensus, ensuring that no dissent was ignored. Even the Finance Minister herself did not have the authority to alter rates suggested by the Finance Commission.

Sitharaman invited states seeking additional funds to approach the Finance Commission or take legal routes, denying any delays or shortfalls in fund allocations.

She clarified that states receive 50% of the revenue given to the Centre through GST, plus 41% of the Centre's share, debunking claims that Tamil Nadu contributed more than it received.

On a different note, Sitharaman raised alarms about the influx of Chinese lighters in Tamil Nadu's black market, which threatens local fireworks industries.

Earlier, she highlighted the Centre's initiatives empowering women economically, such as PM Jan Dan Yojana, Jal Jeevan Mission, SVANidhi, and affordable LPG cylinders.

(With inputs from agencies.)