Kerala Lottery Agents Unite: A Fight for Survival Against Soaring GST

A storm of discontent has swept across Kerala, as thousands of lottery agents and sellers took to the streets in a powerful display of protest against the drastic increase in Goods and Services Tax (GST) on state-run lotteries. Their unified message is clear: this hike from 12% to a staggering 28% threatens to dismantle their livelihoods and cast a shadow over the future of Kerala's beloved lottery system.

The protest, spearheaded by the Kerala Lottery Agents and Sellers Association, culminated in a determined march to the Kerala Lottery Directorate in Thiruvananthapuram.

The air was thick with concern and resolve as agents voiced their fears over the new rates, which became effective on March 1. This significant tax jump, they argue, directly jeopardizes the income of an estimated 2.5 lakh individuals who depend solely on lottery sales for their sustenance.

For these dedicated agents and sellers, the lottery isn't just a game of chance; it's a lifeline.

Many of them are economically vulnerable, including a substantial number of elderly and physically challenged individuals, for whom selling lottery tickets is their only source of dignified income. The increase in GST means a substantial reduction in their commission, pushing them further towards financial precarity.

The issue isn't new; earlier, the Kerala High Court had granted a stay on the implementation of these new GST rates until February 29.

However, with the expiration of that stay, the 28% rate automatically kicked in, triggering immediate widespread apprehension and this fervent protest. The Association vehemently states that continuing with the new GST regime is unsustainable and will inevitably lead to the closure of their businesses.

Beyond the personal impact on agents, the protestors also highlighted the potential adverse effects on state revenue.

Kerala's lottery system is a significant source of income for the state exchequer, funding numerous welfare schemes. A decline in sales due to higher prices and reduced agent interest could severely impact these crucial public services.

The protestors are now urging the state government to intervene swiftly.

Their demands are unequivocal: either the government must persuade the central authorities to roll back the GST hike or, failing that, provide substantial support and concessions to the lottery agents and sellers to mitigate the devastating financial blow. The future of Kerala's lottery system, and indeed the well-being of a quarter-million people, hangs precariously in the balance as they await a favourable response from the authorities.