A roundtable meeting organised by Telangana Rythu Sangham on ‘The effect of GST on Agriculture’ called for State-wide agitations on June 30 opposing the tax.
All India Kisan Sabha vice-president Sarampalli Malla Reddy gave the call and criticised the Telangana Government for being the first State to pass the bill in the Assembly, without realising the additional burden it would lay on the State.
Instead, now, the government is seeking tax exemption for its projects, he said.
The agricultural implements would now cost 20% more, while the State has to endure ₹50,000 crore additional burden on the whole, he pointed out.
‘Commoners punished’
The Centre is already getting a tax income of ₹14 lakh crore, and yet it seeks to generate more income through disinvestment. Further, it is resorting to GST now, he charged. Those evading taxes and hoarding black money are being left scot-free while common man is being punished with tax up to 28%.
Farmers of the country are already under severe stress due to increased costs and faulty government policies.
Imports of commodities such as sugar have increased, which were being exported from here earlier.
Mr. Reddy attributed the policies to government’s intentions to promote corporate farming. He questioned about the BJP manifesto where it had promised an MSP with 50% over the production cost, and pension for farmers.
The organisation has announced that it would hold demonstrations at mandal headquarters from June 30.
