NATIONAL: Air Pollution Fury: Court Slams Centre Over GST on Purifiers
The Delhi High Court showed clear frustration over the ongoing high tax on air purifiers while pollution grips the capital.
A bench hearing a public interest case questioned why the government has not acted to lower the 18 percent GST rate.
Judges described the situation as an emergency needing quick fixes.
PIL Seeks Reclassification
Advocate Kapil Madan filed the petition, arguing air purifiers should count as medical devices rather than luxury items.
He wants them shifted to the 5 percent GST bracket to make them affordable for more people.
The plea stresses their role in protecting health during severe smog spells.
Health Risks Highlighted
The court noted people breathe around 21,000 times daily, making polluted air a direct threat to well-being.
It pointed out that if clean outdoor air cannot be guaranteed, easing access to indoor purifiers is the least authorities can do.
This remark underscored the urgency for vulnerable groups like children and the elderly.
Directive to GST Council
Judges ordered the GST Council to meet soon and review options for cutting or removing the tax on these devices.
They suggested even a short-term relief could help during peak pollution. The matter is set for further hearing shortly to check progress.
Current Pollution Context
Delhi’s air quality has hovered in very poor to severe ranges this winter, with recent readings often above 300 on the AQI scale.
Thick smog has reduced visibility and raised health alerts across the region. Many residents rely on purifiers to filter harmful particles indoors.
Broader Implications
The case draws attention to how tax policies affect public health tools in crisis times.
A parliamentary panel had earlier recommended sympathetic treatment for such items. Observers hope this pushes faster policy changes for better access.