BJP wary as Ramdev insists on Banking Transaction Tax, demonetization of high-value currency notes

On the GST (General Sales Tax) issue, which is still pending, Jaitley said, the states are of the view that they are unwilling to hand over their rights to the Centre. A similary concern could arise over BTT and it would be the Centre's responsibility to resolve it, should a similar issue arises, said Jaitley.

One and a half years ago, Jaitley said, Swami Ramdev had told me about the  imposition of BTT and demonetization of high value currency notes.

"I had then thought that the discussion would die its own death. There is no doubt that people of India are unhappy with the current taxation system and the new proposals appear to be attractive", said Jaitley.

In his speech, Ramdev said, the government was imposing 60 pc tax on the people, and "even beggars have to pay tax".

"We want poor farmers and workers to be kept out of taxation, and levying of heavy taxes on cigarettes and alcohol", said Ramdev.