Opposition and economists slam govt as India's GDP growth dips

Opposition leaders and economists slammed the government after the latest GDP figures were released. India's Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth slipped further to hit an over six-year low of 4.5 per cent in July-September. This is what the critics had to say and what Nirmala Sitharaman tweeted, after the GDP figures were released.

Manmohan Singh
"This is clearly unacceptable. Aspiration of our country is to grow at 8-9%. A sharp decline in GDP from 5% in Q1 to 4.5% in Q2 is worrisome. Mere changes in economic policies will not help revive the economy."

"India's GDP has collapsed to an abysmal 4.5%. We are in a virtual free-fall. This is the lowest GDP quarter in 6 years. But why is the BJP celebrating? Because their understanding of GDP ( Godse Divisive Politics) suggests double digit growth levels. All in the perspective!"

Sitaram Yechury
"This is the New India. This government wants a Hindu Rashtra which they want to do keeping states at bay. FM says this is not a recession, then what is the solution? The economy won't do better until there is public pressure. It is a complete one-way traffic, no consultation. An authoritative govt which doesn't want to listen to anyone."

Asaduddin Owaisi
"Businesses have shut down, youth are unemployed & families are under immense financial stress. Lowest GDP since 2013 & @PMOIndia isn't even willing to admit that the economy is in crisis.

Pronab Sen
"I don't think the growth has bottomed out, the growth figures may continue to decline the next quarter too, however, post fourth quarter may show some recovery owing to the base effect."

Derek O'Brien
"Lowest GDP growth in 26 quarters! No answers from FM. No wonder, full Opposition walked out of Rajya Sabha 40 minutes into the FM's speech this week. And ministers dozed off in their seats #Parliament."

Nirmala Sitharaman
"Today, we mark the completion of six months of the second term of @PMOIndia @narendramodi. Several significant steps in structural reforms have been taken in these months. Responses/interventions addressing the needs of the economy will continue."