No GST on UPI Over ₹2,000: Govt Clarifies | Opposition Slams VP Dhankhar’s SC Remarks

Morning Digest: No GST on UPI Transactions Over ₹2,000, Clarifies Government; Opposition Criticises VP Dhankhar’s Remarks Against Supreme Court

New Delhi | April 2025 – In this morning’s key developments, the Centre has categorically clarified that no GST will be levied on UPI transactions exceeding ₹2,000, quelling fears sparked by viral misinformation. Meanwhile, a fresh politico-judicial controversy brews as Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar faces backlash for his recent comments about the Supreme Court's authority.

✅ Government: No GST on UPI Transactions, Digital Payments Remain Tax-Free

The Finance Ministry addressed growing speculation on social media claiming that high-value UPI payments may soon attract GST. The ministry firmly stated that all UPI and digital payments remain GST-free, regardless of transaction value.

“There is no consideration to impose GST on UPI or other digital payment modes. Such reports are baseless,” said a senior official from the Ministry of Finance.

This statement comes as a relief to millions of users and merchants who have increasingly shifted to digital payments post-COVID. Industry leaders and fintech startups hailed the move, saying it reaffirms India’s push towards a cashless economy and financial transparency.

Digital advocacy groups added that any such tax would have hurt small businesses and discouraged digital adoption—something the government clearly wants to avoid.

🔥 VP Dhankhar Under Fire: “Undermining Judiciary’s Role,” Say Opposition Leaders

The Vice President’s recent remarks on the “basic structure doctrine”—a key principle upheld by the Supreme Court—have not gone down well with constitutional experts and political rivals.

Dhankhar questioned the judiciary’s authority in striking down laws passed by Parliament and hinted that the doctrine needs to be revisited. This doctrine has been the bedrock of Indian constitutional interpretation since the landmark Kesavananda Bharati judgment (1973).

Opposition parties, led by the Congress, AAP, and DMK, slammed the remarks, accusing the VP of overstepping his constitutional role.

“The Vice President must protect the Constitution, not challenge its foundations,” said Congress spokesperson Pawan Khera.

Legal scholars have also entered the conversation, warning that undermining the SC’s authority could disturb the delicate balance of power between the legislature, executive, and judiciary.