CSDS apology sparks RS row
Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan criticised the Opposition in the Rajya Sabha for disrupting proceedings over alleged vote chori in the Maharashtra elections. This came after CSDS publicly apologised for data errors in its poll research. Pradhan accused the Congress of spreading confusion using flawed data and politicising the issue. He said disrupting Parliament wastes taxpayer money.
Maharashtra Rain toll hits 27
Mumbai and parts of Maharashtra reeled under severe flooding after torrential rains left 27 dead and over 5,000 people rescued. Several districts, including Pune and Jalgaon, reported flood-related fatalities. Authorities released water from key dams, triggering flood alerts in low-lying areas. Experts attributed the intense rainfall to a mix of monsoon and climate change, citing increased Arabian Sea warming and wind patterns.
Dumped voter IDs trigger uproar
A major controversy erupted in Tikamgarh, MP after over 40 partially burnt voter ID cards were found near Union Minister Dr Virendra Kumar’s residence. The cards, discovered at a garbage site, have triggered a probe amid suspicions of attempted destruction of evidence and possible misuse in welfare schemes. With nationwide concerns over voter list manipulation and “vote theft,” the incident has fueled political outrage.
Firms may hoard GST gains
Despite excitement over GST cuts, concerns persist. Companies in stable-demand sectors may not pass tax benefits to consumers, leading to super profits and possibly triggering anti-profiteering rules. The expected $20 billion annual tax loss raises fiscal deficit concerns, though the Government hopes consumption and growth will compensate.
Tax hits salaried class
In the past three years, individual income tax collections have exceeded corporate tax collections, marking a significant shift. Between 2014 and 2024, while corporate tax revenues doubled, individual taxes quadrupled. Unlike companies that pay tax only on profits numerous deductions, individuals face limited tax-saving options.