New Delhi: In a sharp critique of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) government, Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Monday denounced the imposition of 18% Goods and Services Tax (GST) on examination forms for government jobs, calling it an undue burden on aspirants and their families. The Congress general secretary highlighted the plight of parents who save every penny to support their children’s aspirations, only to see their efforts turned into a source of government revenue.
GST Burden on Aspirants
Priyanka Gandhi took to X (formerly Twitter) to express her concerns, sharing an examination form from the Kalyan Singh Super Speciality Cancer Institute in Lucknow, which revealed the GST levy. She wrote, “The BJP cannot provide young people work, but by adding 18% GST on test forms, it is undoubtedly making matters worse.”
She pointed out that this tax is applied to government job forms, including those for the Agniveer recruitment process. Gandhi also underscored how corruption and administrative failures often lead to examination cancellations or paper leaks, wasting the hard-earned money of aspirants.
“After filling the form, if the paper is leaked due to the failure of the government or if there is corruption, then this money of the youngsters is wasted,” she noted, emphasizing the frustration and despair such situations cause.
Impact on Families
Gandhi’s critique also focused on the sacrifices of parents, many of whom come from modest backgrounds, striving to ensure their children have opportunities for a better future. “Parents save every cent and give their life to educate their kids and get them ready for tests. The BJP administration has converted their aspirations into a source of revenue,” she asserted.
The Congress leader’s comments have reignited debates about the fairness of GST policies and their impact on India’s youth.
Symbolic Sparring in Parliament
The controversy extended into Parliament, where Priyanka Gandhi’s symbolic gestures caught the attention of BJP leaders. Last week, she carried tote bags with bold inscriptions to Parliament, making political statements. On Monday, she brought a bag that read “Palestine” in solidarity with the Palestinian people. The following day, her bag bore the message “Stand with the Hindus and Christians of Bangladesh.”
BJP’s Countermove
In response, BJP MP Aparajita Sarangi presented Gandhi with a bag inscribed with “1984 riots” in red letters, referencing the anti-Sikh riots that remain a sensitive issue for the Congress party. According to eyewitness accounts, Sarangi handed the bag to Gandhi in a Parliament hallway. Gandhi accepted it without comment and continued walking.
Sarangi later remarked that Gandhi should address historical injustices, using her tote bags for messages on those issues as well. “The Wayanad MP ought to bring up this matter via her tote bags as well,” she stated, adding to the symbolic war of words between the two parties.
Public and Political Reactions
The exchange of barbs and symbolism has sparked mixed reactions. While Gandhi’s supporters praised her for highlighting GST’s impact on youth, critics accused her of politicizing administrative issues. The BJP’s counter, invoking a contentious chapter of India’s history, further polarized opinions.
Observers note that these developments underline the growing use of symbolism in Indian politics, where gestures often convey as much as words.
Broader Implications
The GST controversy has spotlighted broader issues concerning governance, youth employment, and public trust in administrative systems. Gandhi’s focus on job-related challenges resonates with many, especially as India grapples with unemployment concerns.
Meanwhile, the symbolic exchanges in Parliament reflect the deepening divide between the BJP and Congress, with both parties using history and current issues as tools for political messaging.
As the debate unfolds, questions about GST policies, administrative accountability, and political discourse continue to capture public attention.
