Opposition Leaders Slam BJP's Decision to Raise GST Rate on Old Vehicles from 12% to 18%, Citing Harm to Middle-Class Families and Small Traders

New Delhi, Dec 22: The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convenor Arvind Kejriwal and Samajwadi Party (SP) chief Akhilesh Yadav have sharply criticized the central government's decision to increase the Goods and Services Tax (GST) rate on old vehicles from 12% to 18%, accusing it of primarily benefiting corporate interests at the expense of middle-class families and small traders.

The contentious GST hike has triggered widespread concerns, with opposition leaders urging the government to reconsider its stance.

"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," Kejriwal tweeted. "The BJP government works only for the rich and industrialists, offering nothing but inflation, taxes, and pain to the poor and middle class."

Similarly, Yadav referred to GST as a "game of snakes and ladders", criticizing the periodic adjustments in rates that tend to benefit those who contribute to the ruling party's coffers. He alleged this policy perpetuates uncertainty among small traders, making them more susceptible to exploitation.

"Pervasive GST changes give opportunity for corrupt officials to extort money from honest business owners," Yadav said. "The central government must prioritize ordinary citizens' welfare over corporate interests in making tax policies."

As public discontent rises, the opposition's criticism has intensified, sparking heated debates about GST reforms and their impact on the economy.

"A more transparent and stable tax policy is imperative for the country's economic growth," Kejriwal emphasized. "Government needs to address concerns of ordinary citizens instead of catering only to corporate lobbies."

A recent increase in GST rates on old vehicles has sparked widespread concern, prompting both opponents and supporters of the move to take the government to task.

The situation continues to deteriorate, with no definitive end in sight as public pressure mounts.