GST Collection Increases 8.5% to Reach Rs 1.82 Lakh Crore in November 2024
India's GST collections for November 2024 grew by 8.5%, totaling over Rs 1.82 lakh crore, driven by higher revenues from domestic transactions. The breakdown of October 2024 collections revealed Rs 34,141 crore in Central GST, Rs 43,047 crore in State GST, Rs 91,828 crore in Integrated IGST, and Rs 13,253 crore in cess. Despite a strong performance in October, experts caution that it is too early to interpret this as a broader economic trend. Saurabh Agarwal from EY India noted potential challenges ahead, citing a possible slowdown in tax collections and the impact of global economic conditions. However, positive momentum in regions like Jammu & Kashmir, Bihar, and Odisha offers a bright spot.
Mehbooba Mufti’s ‘No Difference Between India and Bangladesh’ Remark Stirs Controversy
Former Jammu & Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti sparked a political controversy with her statement comparing the conditions of minority communities in India and Bangladesh. Speaking to PDP workers in Jammu, she claimed, “If atrocities are committed against minorities in India as well, then what is the difference between India and Bangladesh?” This remark drew sharp criticism from BJP leaders, who accused her of making anti-national statements. Mufti also criticized the government for failing to address issues like unemployment and infrastructure, and raised concerns about discrepancies in the electoral process.
Devendra Fadnavis Confirmed as Maharashtra’s Next Chief Minister: Report
A senior BJP leader confirmed on Sunday that Devendra Fadnavis has been finalized as Maharashtra's new Chief Minister. The party is set to hold a meeting to elect the new BJP legislature party leader on December 2 or 3. Caretaker CM Eknath Shinde expressed his "unconditional support" for the decision, which will be made by the BJP's top leadership, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, and party president JP Nadda. Shinde also addressed speculation about his son Shrikant Shinde potentially becoming Deputy CM and emphasized that the Mahayuti allies will form the government through consensus.
Eknath Shinde Announces Maharashtra CM Selection to be Decided Tomorrow
Shiv Sena leader Eknath Shinde confirmed on Sunday that the decision regarding Maharashtra's next Chief Minister will be made on Monday, December 2. He reaffirmed his "unconditional support" for the BJP's leadership and dismissed rumors about any discontent with the CM selection. Speaking from his native village in Satara, where he was resting after a hectic election schedule, Shinde clarified that he had fallen ill with a fever and throat infection but was now recovering. He emphasized that the government’s achievements over the past 2.5 years would be remembered as historic, and expressed confidence in the BJP's decision-making regarding the CM candidate. The oath-taking ceremony for the new government is set for December 5, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in attendance.
ED has Summoned businessman Raj Kundra for questioning in a ‘Money Laundering Case’
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has summoned Raj Kundra, the husband of actress Shilpa Shetty, for questioning in a money laundering case tied to the alleged illegal distribution of pornographic content. Kundra has been asked to appear before investigators this week, following raids on his properties and others in Uttar Pradesh. The case stems from complaints about the 'Hotshots' app, which was allegedly used to upload obscene videos. Kundra denies any active involvement, claiming he was falsely implicated. This is the second money laundering case against him, after his assets were previously attached in a cryptocurrency case.
