(Image source from: Government tables GST Bill})

Finance Minister Arun Jaitley tabled the Goods and Services Tax Bill in the Lok Sabha for consideration, braving a prolonged wrangling with the Opposition over procedure. Almost the entire Opposition raised technical objections and insisted that the bill be referred to the standing committee. GST is a Constitution amendment bill that requires two-thirds support in both the Houses. The government has exuded confidence in its ability to push the bill through in both Houses by next week despite the majority of Opposition parties staging a walkout in the Lok Sabha.

Jaitley has exhorted all sections of the House to jointly back the bill by citing how GST could offer a 'win-win' situation for the states in earning more revenues and by showcasing the legislature "as the best example of co-operative federalism on display," Congress chief Sonia Gandhi was seen actively encouraging party members to press for referring the bill to the standing committee, a demand that was backed by most Opposition parties including government-friendly parties AIADMK and BJD.

Congress spokesperson Abhishek Singhvi said his party is not against GST, "which is our baby" but warned the Centre of "consequences" it could face (in the Rajya Sabha) if the bill is pushed without referring to the standing committee.

By Premji