GST will pass muster, conflict in House part of democracy: Jaitley

Ahead of the Monsoon Session, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley on Thursday expressed hope that the “very important” GST Bill will get through in Parliament.

“Some people will try to oppose (the Bills). This conflict continues in parliamentary democracy... I think passage of GST is very important. The possibility of this is high,” he said.

The Monsoon Session starting from July 21 is expected to be a stormy one. The Opposition is closing ranks on several issues, including Vyapam scandal, lalit Modi controversy and the latest Socio Economic Caste Census (SECC).Jaitley added that India is a “bright spot” amid slowing global economy and would need to further improve policies to move to higher growth trajectory.

“India is a bright spot. The global economic situation is very slow. India is moving from 7-7.5 per cent to 8 per cent. To take advantage of this, India needs to improve its economic policy..For that political support within the country will also be required,” the Minister said.Answering questions on the recent SECC, Jaitley said it reflected the poverty and pain within the country and the data will help in framing policies to benefit the needy and improve the situation.

The GST Bill has been passed in the lok Sabha and is being currently scrutinised by a select committee of the Rajya Sabha. The ruling party does not enjoy majority in the House.The Government aims to roll out Goods and Service Tax (GST) Bill, a new indirect tax regime from April 1, 2016.