On September 4, 2025, Bharatiya Janata Party spokesperson Sambit Patra criticized the Congress Party for failing to introduce the Goods and Services Tax (GST) during its long tenure, questioning why the unified tax reform was not implemented earlier. He asserted that years of Congress rule offered multiple opportunities to simplify India’s complex tax system—opportunities the party did not seize due to a lack of political resolve and clear intention.
Political Ramifications and Congress Response
Patra’s comments sparked immediate backlash from Congress leaders, who framed his remarks as politically motivated. They argued that the reforms announced now—though overdue—are more symbolic than substantive, aimed at garnering public support rather than delivering genuine relief.
Congress veteran Pawan Khera highlighted that the government is only now aligning with long-standing advice from Rahul Gandhi, who had repeatedly called for capping GST rates at 18%. Khera noted the discrepancy in timing: “When they finally have to follow Rahul Gandhi’s advice, why do they take so much time in doing that?” Congress leader P. Chidambaram went further, calling the reforms “eight years too late,” stressing that the original GST design and rates themselves were flawed and should not have been introduced as structured.
Historical Context: Why GST Didn’t Launch Earlier
To understand the context, it helps to look back:
• The idea of GST in India dates back to the early 2000s. A task force led by Vijay Kelkar laid a strong foundation, leading to a GST proposal being introduced in 2011.
•However, when the ruling Congress-led coalition was still in power, the bill stalled in Parliament amid opposition, notably from BJP leader Narendra Modi, then Gujarat Chief Minister. This ultimately deferred its passage.
•Following the BJP’s election victory in 2014, the reform regained momentum. The GST Bill was reintroduced in late 2014, passed through both Houses in 2016, and finally became law with the constitutional amendment—ushering in the GST regime on July 1, 2017
Summary: What’s at Stake?
Perspective – Key Points
BJP View – Congress lacked the initiative to enact GST earlier despite being in power.
Congress View – Present reforms merely correct an earlier flawed implementation, not reversal.
Historical View – Multiple rounds of debate, opposition, and legislative setbacks delayed the rollout.
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