Finance Commission will give report only after consulting all states: VP

AMARAVATI: Vice-President M Venkaiah Naidu today said states need not worry about the probable recommendations of the 15th Finance Commission as there would be no discrimination of any sort.

            The Commission would give its report only after due consultations with all states, he said, adding that its Chairman N K Singh assured him that past performance of the states would be duly recognised.

            The Vice-president’s remarks assume significance in the light of the recent concerns raised by some states and union territories over the terms of reference of the Commission.

            A conclave of Chief Ministers and Finance Ministers of various states held in Amaravati on May 7 noted that the ToR of the 15th Finance Commission “posed a threat to the economic independence of the states” and made a strong pitch for assured devolution (of funds) rather than discretionary devolution. (AGENCIES)