Bhubaneswar/ Jharsuguda, September 2: Prime Minister Narendra Modi, addressing a public gathering in Jharsuguda, lashed out at the Congress government in Himachal Pradesh for allegedly blocking relief measures from the Centre and levying extra taxes on fuel and cement, despite price reductions by the Modi administration. He accused Congress of "looting" the people wherever it governs.
"The Congress government in Himachal Pradesh is blocking the benefits of the Center’s relief efforts," PM Modi stated. "When we reduced the GST rates, we aimed to provide relief to the common people. But wherever Congress governs, it imposes additional taxes on essential goods like diesel, petrol, and cement, preventing the benefits from reaching the public. Instead, they filled their own coffers while the prices remained unchanged," he said.
The Prime Minister further criticized the Congress government, saying, "Wherever Congress is in power, they loot the people. This is what happened in Himachal Pradesh, and it has been their habit for years. In 2014, you chose us to end Congress’s corrupt system of loot. Under the BJP government, the era of double savings and double income has begun."
Naresh Chauhan, Principal Media Advisor to the Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister, reacted to PM Modi’s statement by welcoming the reduction in GST slabs. However, he accused the Modi government of exploiting the public for eight years under what he described as a "Jaziya tax." "Since 2017, the BJP government has looted the public by imposing GST, raising ₹55 lakh crore. Now, Modi should explain why he never passed on the benefit of lower global crude oil prices to the people. Instead, profits went to big industrialists," Chauhan claimed. He also credited Congress leader Rahul Gandhi for consistently advocating for a reduction in GST slabs, referring to it as the "Gabbar Singh Tax."
PM Modi, during the event in Jharsuguda, also highlighted the government's efforts for Odisha's development, citing the state's progress under a "double-engine" push. "A year and a half ago, the people of Odisha resolved to move forward with the commitment of 'Developed Odisha,' and we are now seeing the result," said PM Modi. He announced the launch of BSNL's indigenous 4G services and the approval of two semiconductor units for the state. "Thousands of crores of rupees have been invested in Odisha for its development. The people’s commitment is now turning into action," he added.
The Prime Minister also reiterated the government’s focus on welfare for marginalized communities, particularly the poor, Dalits, backward classes, and tribals. "When a poor family gets a pucca house, not only do they benefit in the present, but also the future generations benefit. Our government has provided over 4 crore pucca houses to poor families across India. In Odisha, the construction of thousands of houses is underway, with nearly 50,000 families receiving house approval today," he said.
PM Modi also emphasized India’s resolve to become self-reliant in every sector, from chips to ships, including a major boost to the shipbuilding industry. "A strong economy requires a strong shipbuilding industry. Whether it is for trade, technology, or national security, shipbuilding plays a key role. By having our own ships, we ensure smooth imports and exports, even during times of crisis," he concluded, referring to the ₹70,000 crore package recently approved for the sector.
In closing, PM Modi’s address underscored the government’s ongoing efforts for national development and its commitment to ensuring that benefits reach all sections of society, despite opposition challenges.
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