Jaitley corners opposition on demonetisation; says Modi has taken a historic step, created new 'normal'

Indian Finance Minister Arun Jaitley took on opposition, saying Prime Minister Narendra Modi created the new normal.

Addressing the gathering at the BJP parliamentary meet, Jaitley slammed opposition’s criticism and spelled out reasons why demonetisation was required at this hour.

“It is only natural there would a currency squeeze, for the next few weeks, the government will be focusing on the rural sector. This is a historic move, the benefits of which will be reaped by our future generations,” said Jaitley.

Modi met BJP MPs and created a plan to corner opposition in Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, which have been facing adjournments owing to protest over demonetisation.

"Some people saying even FM did not know of this decision, and then they say the party knew beforehand,” said Jaitley, on the allegations that the PM had allegedly warned some of his closest about the note ban.

Digital economy will also get a boost by this decision, he said. He Further added that although cash shall remain but most of the transactions will become digital now.

(Image: Reuters)