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5d ago

Delhi High Court Seeks Centre’s Reply on Plea to Cut GST on Air Purifiers

Judges kept focus on public-health access, with the Centre saying tax changes require the constitutionally mandated route.

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Delhi High Court Defers Relief in Air Purifier GST Plea as Centre Questions PIL, Warns of ‘Pandora’s Box’ | Image: Republic
Additional solicitor general K Venkataraman, appearing for the Centre, argued that any move to slash GST rates could not be decided in isolation. (HT PHOTO)
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Overview

  • The vacation bench gave the Union government 10 days to file a detailed counter-affidavit and listed the case for hearing on January 9.
  • Appearing for the Centre, ASG N. Venkataraman opposed any judicial direction to reduce the rate, warning such a move would open a “Pandora’s box.”
  • The government argued device classification lies with the Health Ministry and rate-setting with the GST Council, questioning the PIL’s maintainability and motives.
  • The Centre told the court that GST Council decisions require in-person deliberation and voting, ruling out a virtual meeting.
  • The bench pressed affordability concerns, noting air purifiers cost roughly ₹10,000–₹60,000, as the government cited ongoing reviews, including a Parliamentary panel’s recommendations.