Anil Vij Counters Rahul Gandhi on GST, Calls for Awareness of Congress’s Role

By A Staff Reporter

Ambala, Haryana — Responding to recent statements made by Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, Haryana Minister Anil Vij defended India’s tax structure and the creation of the Goods and Services Tax (GST). Vij emphasized that the tax system has evolved since independence, pointing out that income tax and other levies have long been integral to the country’s fiscal framework.

Vij explained that GST was introduced to address significant issues like tax evasion under the old sales tax regime, with representatives from all major political parties, including the Congress, contributing to its formation. “The GST Council includes representatives from Congress-led state governments, and it was established with their full consent. It is not a partisan policy but a nationwide reform agreed upon by all,” said Vij.

He criticized Rahul Gandhi’s remarks, suggesting that the Congress leader should recognize his party’s role in supporting the policy from its inception. According to Vij, GST was created through extensive dialogue and consensus-building across party lines, aimed at creating a unified tax system that could enhance transparency and reduce tax leakages.

In his statement, Vij also highlighted that GST has streamlined tax collection and reduced loopholes for evasion, creating a more robust and consistent revenue stream for the country. “Rahul Gandhi needs to acknowledge that this isn’t a unilateral decision; it’s a collective reform that Congress governments were a part of,” he asserted.

The Haryana minister’s remarks underscore the ongoing debate around GST and broader fiscal reforms, as political leaders navigate both public opinion and policy outcomes. As the national tax system continues to evolve, these discussions highlight the significance of cross-party involvement in fiscal decision-making.