Discussed GST with majority parties, one or two issues left: Naidu

New Delhi: Stating that the Goods and Services Tax (GST) Bill is the need of the hour, Union Parliamentary Affairs Minister M. Venkaiah Naidu on Thursday said the government has discussed the matter with majority of the parties to ensure its passage.

“We have almost completed discussions with majority of the parties; there are one or two issues. We will try to convince the Opposition, as we want to get it passed because GST is the need of the hour,” the Naidu told reporters here.

He further said Parliament will meet from April 25 to May 13 for a new session owing to prorogation of the two houses last month during the inter-session period.

“The second part of the Budget Session will commence on April 25 and will continue till May 13,” he added.

The GST is a long-awaited and important piece of legislation that aims to simplify and standardise India’s tax structure. The GST Bill requires an amendment to the constitution, for which a two-thirds majority is needed in each house of Parliament.

Naidu further said that Parliament will be discussing mainly financial business comprising discussion and voting on demands of Ministries in Lok Sabha and discussion of selected ministries in Rajya Sabha.

“Appropriation Bills of Railways and General Budget and the Finance Bill will also be discussed, he added. (ANI)