Bhopal: The Madhya Pradesh Legislative Assembly has passed the Goods and Services Tax (GST) Amendment Bill, imposing a 28% GST on individuals engaged in online gaming business. In protest against the amendment, the opposition walked out of the assembly, arguing that it would encourage gambling and hurt the youth.
The Deputy Speaker mentioned that this amendment would put a stop to apps like Mahadev Satta. The opposition claimed that the move was disconnected from the actual issues and could lead to addiction among the youth, holding the government responsible if it led to tragic consequences. In response, the Congress legislator questioned the necessity of such an amendment and the government’s involvement in regulating online gaming.
He expressed dissatisfaction with the lack of consideration for the core issues at hand. The legislation, implemented on January 27th, now enforces a 28% GST on the entire online gaming turnover, replacing the previous system of charging GST on the commission earned by individuals facilitating online games. The Deputy Speaker emphasized that this amendment aims to curb the operation of apps like Mahadev Satta. The government defended the move, stating that it would regulate online gaming and prevent the potential misuse of platforms, particularly those like Mahadev Satta.
The amendment is now law after being successfully passed. It is worth noting that this legislative development aligns with a broader trend where states are taking measures to regulate and tax online gaming activities to address concerns related to addiction and potential illegal activities. The issue continues to be a subject of debate and discussion, with varying perspectives on how to strike a balance between regulation, revenue generation, and safeguarding the interests of the youth.
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