The Delhi High Court is set to hear a petition calling for a reduction in the Goods and Services Tax (GST) on air purifiers, a move that advocates argue is necessary in light of the deteriorating air quality in the national capital. The hearing, scheduled for later this week, comes as Delhi grapples with some of the highest pollution levels in recent years, raising public health concerns and prompting calls for government intervention.
Air pollution in Delhi has been a persistent issue, particularly during the winter months when weather conditions exacerbate the problem. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the city often experiences hazardous levels of particulate matter (PM2.5), which can have severe health implications, including respiratory diseases, cardiovascular problems, and other chronic health conditions. The World Health Organization (WHO) has classified air pollution as a leading environmental risk to health, making the need for effective mitigation strategies increasingly urgent.
The petition, filed by a public interest group, argues that the current GST rate of 18% on air purifiers is excessively high, especially considering the health risks associated with poor air quality. The petitioners contend that reducing the tax rate would make air purifiers more affordable for the average consumer, thereby encouraging wider adoption of these devices in households across the city. They assert that increased usage of air purifiers could help mitigate the adverse effects of pollution, particularly for vulnerable populations such as children, the elderly, and individuals with pre-existing health conditions.
The issue of air quality in Delhi has gained significant attention in recent years, with various studies highlighting the alarming levels of air pollution. The CPCB reported that in November 2023, the average PM2.5 levels in Delhi reached 300 micrograms per cubic meter, far exceeding the safe limit of 60 micrograms set by the WHO. This spike in pollution levels has been attributed to a combination of factors, including vehicular emissions, industrial discharges, construction activities, and seasonal crop burning in neighboring states.
In response to the growing public outcry over air quality, the Delhi government has implemented several measures aimed at curbing pollution. These include the introduction of the odd-even vehicle rationing scheme, increased fines for pollution violations, and the promotion of public transport. However, critics argue that these measures have not been sufficient to address the root causes of pollution, and many residents continue to seek additional solutions, such as the use of air purifiers.
The GST on air purifiers has been a contentious issue since the implementation of the GST regime in India in 2017. While the government has reduced tax rates on various essential goods and services, air purifiers have remained at a relatively high tax bracket. Proponents of the petition argue that air purifiers should be classified as essential health devices, similar to medical equipment, and therefore warrant a lower tax rate.
The upcoming court hearing is expected to draw significant public interest, as it could set a precedent for how the government addresses the issue of air quality and public health in the future. If the court rules in favor of the petitioners, it could lead to a reduction in the GST rate on air purifiers, potentially making them more accessible to a broader segment of the population. This, in turn, could encourage greater investment in air purification technology and contribute to improved air quality in Delhi.
The implications of this case extend beyond the immediate concerns of air quality and public health. A ruling in favor of the petitioners could signal a shift in government policy towards prioritizing public health in the context of environmental issues. It may also prompt further discussions on the need for comprehensive strategies to combat air pollution, including stricter regulations on emissions, investment in green technologies, and public awareness campaigns.
As the Delhi High Court prepares to hear the petition, the stakes are high for both the petitioners and the residents of Delhi. The outcome could have lasting effects on public health, environmental policy, and the accessibility of air purification solutions in one of the world’s most polluted cities.
