Opposition Leaders Criticize GST Increase from 12% to 18%, Claim Policy Harms Middle-Class Families and Small Traders
New Delhi, December 22: The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convenor Arvind Kejriwal and Samajwadi Party (SP) chief Akhilesh Yadav have strongly criticized the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led central government over the recent hike in GST on old vehicles from 12% to 18%. Both leaders accused the government of prioritizing the interests of the wealthy while burdening middle-class families and small traders.
Arvind Kejriwal: “Dreams of the Middle-Class Are Being Crushed”
Arvind Kejriwal expressed his discontent on X (formerly Twitter), accusing the Centre of being indifferent to the struggles of ordinary families:
“Purchasing a car is a significant milestone for an ordinary middle-class family, but the central government is crushing their dreams by increasing taxes even on old cars. The BJP government works only for the rich and industrialists, offering nothing but inflation, taxes, and pain to the poor and middle class,” Kejriwal stated.
Akhilesh Yadav: “GST Has Become a Game of Snakes and Ladders”
Echoing similar sentiments, Samajwadi Party leader Akhilesh Yadav criticized the frequent changes in GST rates, calling it a “game of snakes and ladders.”
“Sometimes GST rates are suddenly increased, and sometimes they are reduced, benefiting only those who contribute to BJP’s coffers. Honest businessmen and officials are left confused, creating opportunities for corruption,” Yadav posted on X.
Yadav further alleged that the constant changes in GST rules are part of a deliberate strategy to keep small traders and shopkeepers uncertain, ensuring they remain vulnerable to exploitation by authorities.
“Business owners have even been heard saying that the BJP deliberately maintains an environment of uncertainty around GST to create opportunities for collecting money from small traders,” he added.
Political Fallout and Public Concerns
The GST hike on old vehicles has sparked concerns among middle-class families and small business owners, with opposition leaders claiming it adds to the financial burden on already strained households.
Both Kejriwal and Yadav emphasized the need for a more transparent and stable tax policy, urging the government to prioritize the welfare of ordinary citizens over corporate interests.
As public discontent grows, the debate around GST reforms and their impact on different economic groups continues to intensify.
