THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Centre’s directive on GST reparation is unacceptable, says State finance minister Thomas Issac. Centre proposal to fill the state’s revenue deficit by taking an external loan is not feasible.

“We should be paid the full amount of GST reparation. It is the constitutional right of states. Raising the borrowing limit of states, with reducing the interest rates, is a useless reform. This will only facilitate enhancing the states gross expenditure.” Issac said.

He further said that Center is complicating even those matters which could be easily resolved through consultations. Even BJP-ruled states hold the view that Centre should take the loan to pay GST reparation. “ Kerala govt will hold a meeting with like-minded states and will inform the state’s decision to the centre officially.”