Nagpur: Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Sunday defended the proposed UPI transaction charges, saying traders and petrol pump owners should not oppose what he described as “nominal” fees, as digital payments play an important role in boosting trade and reducing corruption.
Speaking on the sidelines of a business fireside chat in Nagpur, Fadnavis said the government had already clarified that charges would not apply to all UPI transactions. He accused critics of creating what he termed a “fake narrative” around the issue.
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Fadnavis said digital transactions had contributed to the growth of the economy and helped reduce corruption. He added that traders and petrol pump owners should not resist nominal charges if digital payments are to be expanded further.
Fadnavis Takes Dig at Rahul Gandhi
Taking a jibe at Congress MP Rahul Gandhi over his criticism of the proposed UPI fee, Fadnavis said Gandhi should consider exploring other career options.
He remarked that “stand-up comedy” and mimicry could be employment options for Gandhi, while also alleging that Gandhi had left his own party “unemployed.”
‘People Remember Work, Not Criticism’
Fadnavis also spoke about dealing with criticism and said his focus remains on outcomes rather than what critics say.
According to the Chief Minister, people ultimately remember the work completed, decisions taken and the results achieved rather than criticism faced by political leaders.
Tortoise Inspires Fadnavis
Describing his approach to public life, Fadnavis said his philosophy was inspired by the tortoise.
He said the lesson was to keep moving towards the destination, retreat into the shell when faced with obstacles and resume the journey once the obstacles pass. However, he added that his pace was faster than that of a tortoise.
‘Old Friends Keep Me Grounded’
Fadnavis also highlighted the importance of receiving honest feedback. He said he continues to maintain a group of old friends who do not treat him as the Chief Minister and are willing to tell him directly when they believe he is right or wrong.
He said genuine feedback is essential for improvement and warned that repeatedly hiding problems rather than addressing them could eventually lead to serious consequences.
