• Source:JND
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The head of Kerala’s Congress social media unit, V.T. Balram, resigned on Saturday after a controversial post drew widespread criticism from political leaders across various states. Balram, a former member from Kerala’s Thrithala constituency, was leading the Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee’s (KPCC) social media and digital media efforts. His resignation came a day after the KPCC’s official X (formerly Twitter) posted a message linking Bihar and bidis in response to the recent changes in Goods and Services Tax (GST).

The post, which has been deleted, read “Bidis and Bihar start from B. Cannot be considered a sin anymore.” The post came in reference to the recent decision of the GST Council to lower taxes on bidis from 28 per cent to 18 per cent while increasing the taxes on cigarettes. Many saw the post as offensive towards Bihar and its people since the state is a major hub for bidi production and supports approximately 70 lakh workers across India.

The post drew widespread criticism from leaders across the political spectrum. While BJP leaders in Bihar accused Congress of insulting the state, Congress ally RJD quickly distanced themselves from the remarks.

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Balram, who has been Kerala’s Congress social media unit head, conveyed his decision to resign as the backlash intensified.

Controversial Post Followed GST Cuts On Bidis

The controversial post came after the GST council announced major tax reforms, including a simpler tax structure and changes related to tobacco products. While taxes on cigarettes remain high, bidis will attract lower taxes and tendu leaves used to roll bidis will be taxed at 5 per cent.

Soon after the backlash, the KPCC deleted the post and posted an apology post saying, “We see that our jibe at Modi's election gimmick with GST rates is being twisted. Our apologies if you felt hurt.”

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