AP Assembly Approves GST Bill Amid YSRCP Demand For Debate On Farmers’ Problems

Amaravati: Andhra Pradesh Legislative Assembly on Tuesday approved the Goods and Services Tax (GST) Act adopting it to the state.

The Assembly convened specially for the purpose was adjourned immediately after the Speaker announced that the Bill was passed amidst a vociferous demand by the Opposition YSR Congress for a debate on the plight of farmers in the state.

Earlier introducing the Act, Finance Minister Yanamala Ramakrishnudu lauded GST as a revolutionary measure taken by Modi government. He said the uniform tax structure across the country would benefit the states and distribute wealth unanimously throughout the country.

Welcoming GST Act, Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu said its implementation would mark a new era in the country as well as in states.

However, YSRCP demanded a debate on the issues concerning farmers in the state and staged a protest against the government's apathy.

The Assembly also approved a Bill authorizing the government to appoint sports persons in the State Public Service positions. Sports persons who demonstrate extraordinary talent and bring reputation to the state will be appointed in APPSC jobs according to their academic qualifications but without any tests or interviews as is in the case of general public.

In a statement, Leader of Opposition YS Jagan Mohan Reddy criticized the government's negligent attitude towards the farmers' problems. Farmers are facing hurdles everywhere and the government is not at all concerned about their issues, YS Jagan said adding that the chief minister is more interested in providing public service job to PV Sindhu than resolving farmers' problems.