Daijiworld Media Network - Jaipur
Jaipur, Sep 16: Union Culture and Tourism Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat launched a blistering critique of the Opposition on Tuesday, accusing them of hypocrisy over the Goods and Services Tax (GST). Speaking in Jodhpur, Shekhawat said that those who once derided GST as a “Gabbar Singh Tax” are now scrambling to claim credit for its success.
He credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership for turning GST into a transformative reform that is now easing the financial burden on ordinary citizens. “Essential and commonly used items will now be more affordable,” he said, referencing the recent GST rate reductions.
Shekhawat pointed out that monthly GST collections have soared—from Rs 60,000– Rs 70,000 crore in its early days to over Rs 2 lakh crore today. Addressing concerns about state revenues, he assured that the central government remains committed to compensating any shortfalls.
He also indicated openness to bringing petroleum products under the GST framework, provided there is consensus among all states. The minister praised Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma for providing additional subsidies on Ujjwala gas cylinders, calling it a step toward real relief for the poor.
Drawing from Prime Minister Modi’s recent Independence Day address, Shekhawat added a festive spin: “The PM said we’ll celebrate two Diwalis this year—but I see three. One’s already visible in booming auto sales, the second will come with Navratri shopping, and the third with Diwali itself.”
He didn’t hold back on state politics either. Referring to the 2020 political crisis in Rajasthan, Shekhawat claimed vindication after the court accepted the closure reports by ACB and CBI, saying the Congress had misused institutions for internal rivalries. “Truth can be shaken but not buried,” he said.
Taking a swipe at former CM Ashok Gehlot, Shekhawat accused him of halting the Jojri river cleanup project out of political vendetta. He said the Centre couldn’t act then due to limitations but confirmed that the current state government has revived the project with fresh funding for slum rehabilitation and river restoration.
Shekhawat also announced a nationwide ‘Seva Pakhwada’ campaign from September 17 (PM Modi’s birthday) to October 2, during which the Ministry of Culture will hold drawing competitions and blood donation camps, including in Jodhpur.