Jaishankar on Bangladesh crisis, protests over GST: Here’s what happened in Parliament

As MPs rallied for change on critical economic policies, tension flared in the Lok Sabha, reflecting the broader concerns of citizens grappling with rising costs and geopolitical uncertainties amid the Bangladesh political crisis.

External Affairs minister S Jaishankar addressed both Houses regarding the political unrest in Bangladesh following PM Sheikh Hasina's resignation amid widespread protests. (Express Archives)

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar outlined the government’s response in Parliament on Tuesday to the escalating crisis in Bangladesh, a day after Sheikh Hasina resigned and fled the country. Meanwhile, the Opposition continued its protest over the burdensome GST on health insurance.

Finance Bill

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman introduced the Finance Bill aimed at implementing the government’s financial proposals for the fiscal year 2024-25. The bill has garnered mixed reactions, with the Opposition criticizing its impact on common citizens.

Several MPs, including Rahul Gandhi, protested against the 18% GST on health insurance premiums, demanding a rollback, while TMC MP Mahua Moitra emphasised the need for a balanced approach to direct and indirect taxes, criticizing the burden on the middle class.

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In defence, BJP MP PP Chaudhary argued that lower taxation would lead to increased compliance and economic activity, benefiting welfare schemes.

Also Read | Bangladesh Protest News Live Updates: B’desh Army carries out major reshuffle in top positions; 2 former ministers detained at airport

Bangladesh Crisis Briefing

External Affairs minister S Jaishankar addressed both Houses regarding the political unrest in Bangladesh following PM Sheikh Hasina’s resignation amid widespread protests. He assured members that India is closely monitoring the situation and maintaining contact with the Bangladesh Army.

Jaishankar mentioned heightened alertness among Indian border forces due to potential spillover effects from the crisis. He expressed concern over the safety of approximately 19,000 Indians in Bangladesh, including students, many of whom have returned to India.

Protests and Political Banter

The Opposition staged protests within the Parliament premises, demanding a reduction in GST on health insurance. Barabanki MP Tanuj Punia quipped that even Lord Krishna would struggle to afford butter under current GST rates.

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Congress’ Deepender Hooda criticized the government for having ‘separate policies for the rich and the common people’, claiming that Haryana is being neglected.

Other issues

📌 MP Anil Yeshwant Desai raised alarms about the financial health of public sector insurance companies, urging the government to reconsider its approach to health and motor insurance.

📌 Union Minister Prahlad Joshi provided updates on the budgetary allocations for renewable energy, emphasizing the government’s commitment to increasing installed capacity.

📌 BJP MP Dr. Medha Kulkarni called for increased train frequency to alleviate overcrowding, citing safety concerns in Mumbai.

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📌 AITC MP Jawhar Sircar advocated for support to families affected by tuberculosis, highlighting the financial strain on households.

Aishwarya Khosla

Aishwarya Khosla is a journalist currently serving as Deputy Copy Editor at The Indian Express. Her writings examine the interplay of culture, identity, and politics. She began her career at the Hindustan Times, where she covered books, theatre, culture, and the Punjabi diaspora. Her editorial expertise spans the Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Chandigarh, Punjab and Online desks. She was the recipient of the The Nehru Fellowship in Politics and Elections, where she studied political campaigns, policy research, political strategy and communications for a year. She pens The Indian Express newsletter, Meanwhile, Back Home. Write to her at aishwaryakhosla.ak@gmail.com or aishwarya.khosla@indianexpress.com. You can follow her on Instagram: @ink_and_ideology, and X: @KhoslaAishwarya. ... Read More

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