The Delhi High Court criticized the Union government for the deteriorating air quality in the capital, suggesting a reduction in Goods and Services Tax (GST) on air purifiers if clean air cannot be guaranteed for citizens. During a hearing on a public interest litigation (PIL) advocating for air purifiers to be classified as medical devices, the court urged the government to consider a temporary GST exemption to address the emergency situation.
The court emphasized the importance of clean air for every citizen and questioned why emergency powers were not being utilized to provide immediate relief. It pressed for swift action, suggesting a temporary GST exemption for 15 days to make air purifiers more accessible to the public during severe pollution levels.
Advocates representing the PIL argued that air purifiers, especially those with High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters, play a crucial role in reducing exposure to harmful pollutants like PM2.5 and PM10. They highlighted that the current 18% GST rate on air purifiers hinders their affordability, particularly during pollution crises, impacting public health and violating the right to life under Article 21 of the Constitution.
The Delhi High Court adjourned the matter to allow the government time to provide instructions and present its stance on the issue at a later hearing.
