Congress attacks Modi government over proposed UPI transaction charges

The Congress party has criticised the Modi government's plan to impose charges on UPI transactions exceeding ₹2,000. According to a gazette notification issued on September 14, 2026, the Centre has designated UPI as a free electronic payment method up to ₹2,000; transactions beyond this threshold will attract charges.

The Congress alleged the government plans to levy 0.5% charge on UPI payments above ₹2,000. The party calculated examples: a ₹5,000 purchase would incur ₹25 in charges, while a ₹10,000 transaction would cost ₹50. The Congress said UPI was previously free for all transactions.

Congress claimed the move represents the government prioritising wealthy industrialists over common citizens, accusing Prime Minister Modi of using taxation as a tool to extract money from the public while benefiting corporate allies.