Delhi High Court gives Centre 10 days to respond on plea to reduce GST on air purifiers

The Delhi High Court has directed the Centre to respond within ten days to a petition requesting a reduction in the Goods and Services Tax (GST) on air purifiers. The plea argues for lowering the current 18% GST to 5%, citing the severe deterioration of air quality in Delhi and neighboring regions. The aim is to make air purifiers more accessible and affordable to help residents combat the increasing pollution levels.

The Delhi High Court has issued an order requiring the Central government to provide a response within ten days regarding a crucial petition. This plea specifically requests a reduction in the Goods and Services Tax (GST) applied to air purifiers, aiming to make these essential devices more affordable for the public. The petitioners have brought to the court's attention the alarming and continuous degradation of air quality in Delhi and its surrounding areas, which has become a significant public health concern.Currently, air purifiers are subject to an 18% GST. The petition proposes a substantial reduction of this tax to just 5%. The core argument behind this proposed tax cut is to enhance the accessibility and affordability of air purification devices for citizens. With the National Capital Region frequently experiencing hazardous levels of air pollution, access to tools that can mitigate indoor air pollution is deemed vital for residents' well-being. By lowering the GST, the court hopes to facilitate wider adoption of air purifiers, thereby offering a practical solution to a pressing environmental and health crisis. This move could significantly alleviate the financial burden on individuals and families seeking to protect themselves from the harmful effects of air pollution. The court's directive underscores the urgency with which environmental health issues are being addressed in the judicial system.