A few days ago, a buzz started circulating, suggesting that the government was planning a substantial 10% GST hike on diesel-powered vehicles. Media outlets, including PTI, promptly picked up this rumour, leading to widespread confusion. However, let’s fact-check this claim and set the record straight: there is no such proposal for a GST hike on diesel vehicles currently under active consideration by the government. Union Minister Nitin Gadkari has firmly denied these allegations.

The Origin of Misinformation: GST hike on diesel vehicles

The source of this misinformation on the GST hike on diesel vehicles can be traced back to an initial tweet by the Press Trust of India (PTI). Unfortunately, several mainstream media outlets, such as timesofindia.indiatimes.com [archive], cnbctv18.com [archive], www.theweek.in [archive], @IndianTechGuide, and @MarketingMvrick, fell for this sensationalized news, exacerbating the situation with their inaccurate reporting.

Political Reaction to GST hike on diesel vehicles

Amidst the misinformation turmoil, Dr. Shama Mohamed, a Congress leader, took to Twitter without adequate information and criticized what she called “tax terrorism.” Moreover, she expressed concerns about the potential adverse impact on the already stressed auto sector. Dr Mohamed suggested that if the government genuinely intends to combat pollution, it should consider boosting subsidies for electric vehicles.

Transport Minister @nitin_gadkari says he plans to impose an additional 10% GST on diesel engines & vehicles as 'pollution tax'

This is tax terrorism. Such a move will kill the already stressed auto sector. If the govt is serious in combating pollution, it should instead…

— Dr. Shama Mohamed (@drshamamohd) September 12, 2023

The Minister’s Clarification

In response to the rumours, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari took to Twitter to clarify the situation. He stated, “There is an urgent need to clarify media reports suggesting an additional 10% GST on the sale of diesel vehicles.” The minister firmly affirmed that no such proposal is currently under the government’s consideration. Gadkari’s statement underscored the government’s unwavering commitment to reducing air pollution and achieving Carbon Net Zero by 2070. To accomplish this, the government aims to promote cleaner, greener, and indigenous alternative fuels that are cost-effective and pollution-free. Moreover, this approach aligns with the government’s focus on sustainable transportation and a healthier environment.

There is an urgent need to clarify media reports suggesting an additional 10% GST on the sale of diesel vehicles. It is essential to clarify that there is no such proposal currently under active consideration by the government. In line with our commitments to achieve Carbon Net…

— Nitin Gadkari (@nitin_gadkari) September 12, 2023

Fact-Check Conclusion

In conclusion, the claim that the government is planning a 10% GST hike on diesel-powered vehicles is entirely baseless. Union Minister Nitin Gadkari has categorically denied any such proposal. It is crucial to exercise caution when encountering sensationalized news and to verify information before drawing conclusions. Following comprehensive analysis and meticulous fact-checking, our team has investigated the claim. You can refer to the findings of this inquiry in the Twitter thread embedded below.

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ANALYSIS: Fake

FACT: Mainstream media outlets are circulating news claiming that govt has proposed to put an additional 10% GST on Diesel vehicles. The fact is that the news is fake, Union Minister Nitin Gadkari has clarified that. (1/2) pic.twitter.com/v9GUmUAdol

— D-Intent Data (@dintentdata) September 12, 2023

Claim: The government proposes a 10% GST increase on diesel vehicles.

Fact: The claim is false. Union Minister Nitin Gadkari has confirmed that no such proposal is under consideration by the government.

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