New Delhi

Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Tuesday lashed out at the Opposition in the Rajya Sabha, accusing them of feigning concern over Manipur while refusing to take part in the legislative process concerning the state.

Responding to the debate on the Manipur Goods and Services Tax (Second Amendment) Bill, 2025, Sitharaman said the Opposition had been vocal in public but was absent during the discussion on a bill aimed at extending GST benefits to the state and replacing an existing Ordinance.

Earlier in the day, several Opposition members staged a walkout after the Chair declined their demand for a discussion on the special intensive revision of electoral rolls. The Finance Minister referenced the walkout and criticised what she called their inconsistency.

“We repeatedly see them claiming to stand for Manipur and shedding crocodile tears. But when it comes to discussions that would actually benefit the state, they are nowhere to be seen,” she remarked.

Sitharaman recalled that the Opposition had skipped deliberations even when the Manipur budget came up earlier. “All the grievances they raise on Manipur — it is nothing but drama,” she said, adding that parties who speak frequently about the state should shoulder responsibility and participate when decisions affecting its welfare are discussed.

“It is unfortunate and shameful that they did not take part in today’s debate on the GST bill for Manipur,” she added.

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After her remarks, the Upper House returned the bill to the Lok Sabha through a voice vote.