Debate on GST Reform as Economic Pressures Mount

Opposition members called for a simplification and reduction of the Goods and Services Tax (GST), citing burden on the poor. Supriya Sule critiqued the current GST structure's complexity. Threats of US reciprocal tariffs on Indian goods were highlighted, alongside economic challenges and calls for policy reforms.

Opposition members in the Lok Sabha on Monday urged the government to simplify and cut the Goods and Services Tax (GST), arguing it burdens the poor. Supriya Sule of the NCP described the GST as needing significant reform and urged the Finance Minister to unify India's tax regime.

As the Finance Bill 2025 was debated, Sule questioned when India will achieve the 'one nation, one tax' vision, given the many existing tax slabs. She pressed the government to clarify its stance on the US-proposed zero tariff policy, which could impact Indian agricultural and pharmaceutical exports.

Meanwhile, TMC's Saugata Roy criticized the current economic management, stating India faces an unseen crisis and is far from its $5 trillion economy goal. Abhay Kumar Sinha highlighted the high GST rates on daily-use items, further stressing the economic strain on lower-income families.

(With inputs from agencies.)