Kerala Governor Gives His Assent to an Ordinance Amending the State Goods and Services Tax (GST) Law with Regard to Gambling

KERALA, India (January 6, 2024) — According to local media reports Kerala Governor Arif Mohammed Khan on Friday gave his assent to an ordinance amending the state Goods and Services Tax (GST) law with regard to gambling. The 50th GST Council meeting had previously set a 28% GST on gambling at casinos, horse racing, and online gambling, specifying that the tax would be imposed on the face value of the bet. The amendment to the GST Act was notified by the central government, and subsequently, the Kerala government issued an Ordinance to implement the changes in the state GST law.

Governor Khan’s approval of the Ordinance is notable amid reported tensions between the CPM-led LDF government and the Raj Bhavan on various issues, including university appointments and alleged party-sponsored protests. However, Governor Khan emphasized that there was no rift between him and Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, stating that he was fulfilling his legal and statutory duties.

Additionally, the Governor addressed reports about the Raj Bhavan not receiving an invitation to the Christmas feast hosted by the Chief Minister, asserting that the invitation was indeed there.

Furthermore, Governor Khan responded to comments from CPM Politburo member Brinda Karat, who suggested that he should fight the 2024 elections on a Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) ticket. The Governor dismissed these suggestions and criticized Karat, questioning her electoral experience.

The article concludes by mentioning that the first Kerala assembly session of the New Year is expected to commence on January 25, with the Governor delivering the policy address on the first day.

SOURCE: Online News Services.