Altaf Bukhari urges FM Sitharaman to reject proposed GST hike on textiles

Srinagar, Dec 21: Former minister and Apni Party president Altaf Bukhari has called on Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman to reject the proposed 28% hike in GST on textiles.

“As the GST Council is holding its 55th meeting today in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan, under the leadership of Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, I once again humbly urge that the proposed GST hike of up to 28% on textiles not be approved,” Bukhari stated.

He emphasized that approving such an increase would severely impact the businesses of Kashmiri shawls, crewel work, and other traditional textiles, ultimately jeopardizing the livelihoods of countless artisans.

“It is worth noting that in 2018, the GST Council reduced the tax on handmade carpets and similar items from 12% to 5% to support traditional crafts and artisans. I appeal to the esteemed members of this apex body to demonstrate the same spirit of magnanimity and compassion today by rejecting the proposed hike and protecting the livelihoods of our artisans,” he said in a post on X.