Mamata questions I-T exemption on deposits in old notes by political parties

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Saturday questioned the government’s decision to give Income Tax exemption on deposits by political parties in old Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes, saying the timing of the announcement shows that there may be “an ulterior motive”.

Her statement came a day after Revenue Secretary Hasmukh Adhia stated that political parties depositing old Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes in their accounts will be exempt from income tax provided the donations taken are below Rs 20,000 per individual and properly documented.

“They need to clarify that #DeMonetisation means it is #DeMonetisation for all. Same rules for everyone. If 500/1000 are illegal tender, then how are they trying to show that there is a division btwn common people & political parties?” Banerjee said in a series of tweets.

“Even the timing of these statements show that there may be an ulterior motive. Is there a motive? Are they trying to give a hidden message to cadre of one political party? Why these confusing and misleading statements now? They must clarify,” she said.

 “It is most unfortunate how there are confusing and misleading statements coming from senior government officials,” said the Trinamool Congress chief.