India, Sept. 17 -- By Shailesh Yadav

New Delhi [India], September 17 (ANI): The government on Thursday refuted claims that the newly introduced Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) on UPI transactions was imposed under external pressure, calling the allegation "false and misleading," according to government sources.

Officials clarified that there is no separate GST levied on MDR charges. While GST will apply to MDR on UPI transactions, businesses will be able to claim full input tax credit against it and set off the liability, meaning the government does not expect to earn any net revenue from the levy.

Sources dismissed talk of a fresh GST burden on UPI users as a "rumour," adding that any residual concerns would be examined by the GST Counci...