NCP optimistic about GST Bill passage with 'consensus'

The National Congress Party (NCP) on Wednesday expressed hope that the amended Good and Services Tax (GST) Bill introduced in the Rajya Sabha by Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley would be passed with consensus.

"It seems there is a consensus between all parties. I think, now in totality, a consensus has been built up and it will be cleared by the Upper House," NCP leader Nawab Malik told ANI.

He, however, pointed out that the NCP was not in favour of GST earlier.

"Today, there is a consensus between all parties. It is good for the country and now it will get through in future. It will be implemented in the country," he said.

The Finance Minister earlier said the GST Bill is one of the most important tax reforms in India's history, adding a reform like this legislation cannot be passed on partisan consensus.

Jaitley said the select committee made some suggestions and the government decided to make some radical changes.

The Finance Minister said the states and the Centre need to work together on the bill.

Jaitley said India will be one economic marketplace after the passage of GST.

"The GST Bill will empower the states. It will increase revenue of states as well as Centre. It will ensure that there is "no tax on tax"," said Jaitley.

"With a uniform tax rate, we will be able to bring about seamless transfer of goods and services across country," he added.

The Finance Minister thanked all opposition parties, especially Leader of Opposition Gulam Nabi Azad, for supporting the government on the issue.

The Rajya Sabha has taken up discussion on the One Hundred Twenty Second Constitution Amendment Bill, 2014, also known as the GST Bill.

When the House re-assembled post lunch, Jaitley moved the bill for consideration and passage.

The BJP and Congress have issued a whip to all its members in the Rajya Sabha asking them to be present in the House for the next three days.