PANAJI: A proposal to waive the 18% GST levied on the salaries of security guards deployed under the Goa Human Resource Development Corporation (GHRDC) at government-run hospitals and other state establishments is under consideration.
Chief Minister Pramod Sawant informed the House today that the matter is currently being examined by the Finance Department and GST Cell. The issue was raised during Zero Hour by the Leader of Opposition, Yuri Alemao.
Alemao pointed out that the security guards, who provide an essential service, largely come from economically weaker sections of society and are unfairly burdened by the GST deduction from their monthly salaries.
“18% GST is a crushing burden as it substantially reduces their take-home monthly income. This House expects a firm assurance from the Chief Minister that their full monthly salary would be secured and deductions reimbursed with retrospective effect,” Alemao demanded.
He urged the government to provide immediate relief to the security personnel, calling the current situation an “injustice” to them.
