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Govt tables GST resolution in ‘modified manner to safeguard special status’

Let me assure you that we will try our best to array all fears or apprehensions through discussions and debates: Drabu  

Srinagar: The PDP-BJP government on Tuesday tabled the resolution in the Legislature regarding the implementation of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) in a ‘modified manner’ in order to respect and safeguard the special status enjoyed by the state of Jammu and Kashmir.

Finance Minister Haseeb Drabu tabled the resolution in the Legislative Assembly while Government spokesman and Minister for Public Works Naeem Akhtar did it in the Legislative council.

The tabled resolution read, “This House resolves that the Government of Jammu and Kashmir may give consent to the adoption of the GST regime by application of relevant amendments made to the Constitution of India in a modified manner to safeguard the existing special constitutional position of J&K in the Union of India and the legislative powers under the Constitution of Jammu and Kashmir.”

Speaking in the Assembly Drabu pointed out that the government wants debates, deliberations and suggestions from every elected representative regarding the issue.

Drabu also stressed that the government is ready to hold debate under the constitution of India as well as the state.

“We want to hold deliberations with all. Regarding, GST, it’s not only JK which is apprehensive but the whole country has apprehensions. We are more apprehensive as there are fears that it might tamper with our constitution. These things are related to our legislature and they should stay and be discussed in the legislature. Whatever apprehensions we have, they should be expressed in this house, “said the Finance Minister.

He added that every elected representative’s fears would be taken care of.

“Every elected representative has the right to voice his/her opinion on this. I will also reply when every lawmaker will put forth his/her apprehensions. Let me assure you that we will try our best to array all fears or apprehensions through discussions and debates,” Drabu said.

In his concluding remarks, Drabu again maintained that the resolution in front of the house should be debated under the constitution of India and the state.

“The resolution directed before the house, I request and urge, that we debate it, put forth suggestions on various aspects which would be recorded and acted upon sincerely. And at the end that would be communicated to the government for action as per procedures. The government is ready to hold any debate under the constitution of India and the constitution of Jammu and Kashmir,” Drabu concluded.

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