Government Allows MDR Fees on UPI Transactions Above Rs 2,000 Amid Opposition Criticism
Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi and Mallikarjun Kharge have criticized the Modi government for allowing Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) fees on UPI transactions above Rs 2,000, alleging this could increase costs for consumers. The government clarified that no charges will apply to transactions up to Rs 2,000, aiming to maintain financial sustainability. While opposition accuses the government of yielding to US payment companies' pressure, officials emphasize protecting most UPI transactions from fees and supporting digital payments growth.
First-hand measurement across 10 sources
We measured how 10 outlets covered this story. Coverage leans balanced overall (Left 30%, Centre 54%, Right 16%). Overall sentiment is negative (30/100). Lens Score 52/100.
Outlets measured: oneindia, thetribune, indiatoday, mint, ndtv, deccanherald, hindustantimes, timesnow, and 2 more. See how each one headlined and framed the same story in the source comparison below.
AI Analysis
Outlets split on this story: 1 leaned left, 8 stayed centre, and 1 leaned right — see how each framed it below.
Sentiment was consistent across outlets (22–50/100), indicating broadly factual reporting rather than editorialising.
Coverage timeline
news18 broke this story on 15 Sept, 08:03 am. Other outlets followed.