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Key Points

JP Nadda has strongly criticized the Congress-led Himachal Pradesh government for increasing cement prices despite GST relief measures. He accused the government of being insensitive while the state recovers from natural disasters. Nadda pointed out that cement manufactured in Himachal is sold cheaper in neighboring states. He warned that people would eventually respond to what he called an anti-people government.

Key Points: JP Nadda Slams Congress Himachal Govt Cement Price Hike

  • Nadda criticizes cement price increase despite GST relief for disaster reconstruction
  • Highlights cement sold cheaper in neighboring states than Himachal
  • Notes electricity and water bill hikes adding to public burden
  • Warns people will teach lesson to anti-people government
2 min read

Trying to fill its coffers instead of bringing relief to people: JP Nadda slams Congress-led Himachal government

BJP chief JP Nadda accuses Congress government of burdening disaster-hit Himachal with cement tax hikes while PM Modi provides relief.

"This is immoral and insensitive...Congress Govt is so insensitive that it has raised tax on cement - JP Nadda"

New Delhi, October 1

BJP National President and Union Minister JP Nadda on Wednesday said that while the GST Bachat Utsav brought relief, the Congress government in Himachal Pradesh is increasing cement prices instead of lowering them, thereby burdening people and trying to fill its coffers amid natural disasters.

In a video message, JP Nadda said, "...On one hand there is joy over GST Bachat Utsav, but on the other hand, Congress Govt in Himachal Pradesh is further burdening the public with tax. We know that Himachal Pradesh is trying to come out of the disaster struck by cloudburst, landslides and floods. With the inspiration by PM Modi, keeping in mind the reconstruction in Himachal Pradesh, relief on cement was provided so that the prices of cement fell by Rs 30...Still, people of Himachal Pradesh could not benefit because Congress Govt in Himachal Pradesh increased the price of cement instead of lowering it...When Himachal Pradesh is suffering through natural calamity and financial issues, instead of bringing relief to the common people, Congress Govt is attempting to fill its coffers."

He called it immoral and insensitive that cement made in Himachal Pradesh is being sold at lower prices in neighbouring states, while people in the state face higher costs.

"This is immoral and insensitive. Unfortunately, when cement manufactured in Himachal Pradesh is sold in neighbouring states, it is available at a lower price but in Himachal Pradesh it is being sold at a higher price. Congress Govt is so insensitive that it has raised tax on cement and water bill...Electricity Bill has also been increased. PM Modi wants to bring relief to the people of Himachal Pradesh but Congress Govt is working to trouble them. This is reveals the inhuman face of Congress Govt. The more it is condemned, the less it is...When the time comes people will teach lesson to this anti-people Govt," Nadda said.

The reform in the Goods and Services Tax structure, which was approved during the 56th meeting of the GST Council earlier this month, came into effect from September 22.

The earlier four-rate system is replaced with a streamlined two-slab regime of 5 per cent and 18 per cent. A separate 40 per cent slab has been retained for luxury and sin goods.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
As someone from Himachal, I can confirm cement prices have gone up significantly. We're trying to rebuild our homes after the floods, and these price hikes are making it impossible. The government should reconsider this decision.
S
Sarah B
While I agree that price hikes during disasters are problematic, I wish political leaders would focus more on solutions rather than just criticism. Both state and central governments need to work together for the people's welfare.
A
Arjun K
Selling cement cheaper in other states while charging more in Himachal? This is daylight robbery! The state government must explain this discrimination. People deserve better treatment during such difficult times. 🙏
M
Michael C
The timing couldn't be worse. After cloudbursts and landslides, construction materials should be subsidized, not taxed more. This shows complete lack of empathy from the state administration.
K
Kavya N
Electricity bills, water bills, and now cement - everything is getting expensive. How do they expect common people to survive? The government needs to understand the ground reality before making such decisions.

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