JHARSUGUDA (ODISHA), SEPTEMBER 27: Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched a sharp attack on the Congress party on Saturday, accusing it of exploiting every opportunity to burden the common people and even taxing those in the low-income bracket during its rule. Speaking at the ‘Namo Yuva Samabesh’ rally in Odisha’s Jharsuguda, the prime minister cautioned citizens against what he described as the Congress’ history of “loot” and anti-people policies.
“The Congress left no opportunity to loot people and even imposed tax on those earning as little as ₹2 lakh annually. The BJP government increased this exemption limit to more than ₹12 lakh. People must remain vigilant against the Congress and its allies, as their politics is based on taking from the poor,” Modi said, urging the youth to remain aware of past policies that, he claimed, stifled economic growth and imposed financial hardship on ordinary families.
The prime minister further alleged that the Congress began “abusing” the BJP government after the Centre reformed the Goods and Services Tax (GST) regime to bring relief to consumers. Highlighting recent steps to rationalise GST slabs, Modi said, “When our government reduced the price of cement, the Congress government in Himachal Pradesh imposed its own tax. When we cut GST rates, prices fell across the country, but Congress refuses to pass this benefit to the people.”
The GST Council recently approved a simplified two-tier tax structure of 5% and 18%, effective from September 22, which is expected to significantly lower prices of a wide range of goods and services. Modi framed this reform as part of the BJP’s larger effort to create a fairer and more transparent tax regime, aimed at benefiting ordinary citizens and boosting consumption.
The prime minister also emphasised the rapid development in Odisha under the BJP’s “double-engine” model—referring to the party being in power at both the Centre and the state. “Odisha, which endured decades of poverty, is now on the path to prosperity. Our government is dedicated to empowering the poor, Dalits, and tribal communities,” he said, adding that key welfare schemes and infrastructure projects are transforming the socio-economic landscape of the state.
Reiterating his government’s vision for a self-reliant India, Modi stressed the importance of ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ and announced that two semiconductor manufacturing units have been approved for Odisha, marking a significant step toward technological self-sufficiency. “It is our resolve that from chip to ship, India must become self-reliant in every sector,” he asserted.
Modi also flagged off the Berhampur-Udhna Amrit Bharat train, which will enhance connectivity for Odia residents living in Gujarat. He described the launch of BSNL’s indigenous 4G network as a milestone in India’s technological journey, noting that India has now joined the elite league of five nations capable of producing homegrown 4G telecom technology.
The prime minister lauded Odisha’s rich cultural heritage and artistic traditions, stating that the state’s contribution to India’s art and culture is recognised worldwide. He concluded by reaffirming his government’s commitment to development-led governance that prioritises empowerment, innovation, and inclusive growth.