Maharashtra Assembly today passed the VAT (Amendment) Bill, which seeks to raise the rate of value-added tax in the state to five per cent, amid Opposition walkout.
The Opposition described the legislation as a "black act" and charged that it seeks to burden the common man with more tax when he was already reeling under price rise. The existing tax rate is four per cent.
Attacking the Congress-NCP ruling alliance, it alleged the government was waiving entertainment tax on IPL matches and the parties organised by the teams later in the evenings, but was increasing tax on the people.
Replying to the debate on the bill, Finance Minister Sunil Tatkare said tax was not levied on IPL anywhere in the country. "This (IPL) is a separate issue and please do not mix it with VAT.
|