GST is revolutionary tax reform which is a big positive for our economy in the long run but it is a fact that business and trading activities in practical terms have slowed down for the moment and the government needs to iron out the flaws so that it has a smooth sailing in the days to come. Tax rates ‘pre and post’ GST are different for many items and this has caused confusion in the minds of the people as one believed it would be beneficial for them. Rebates and set off has either not been understood or people are taken for a ride by manipulators who are not passing the benefits to consumers. Anti-profiteering department of the government should take necessary steps to punish the guilty. Many hoteliers are even charging ‘service tax’ on top of GST which has made dining in restaurants expensive. Education is the need of the hour and government should educate all stakeholders so that GST is not misused.
(The views expressed by the author in the article are his/her own.)
