Bengaluru: Women across the state have lashed out at Modi-led government for levying 12 percent tax on sanitary pads.
The enraged women have started campaign on social media, “Don’t tax on my period” against the central government for causing injustice to women. Under GST, Kumkum and bangles have been made tax-free but the government has levied 12 percent tax on sanitary pads.
“Sex is a choice, but periods are not. When condom is tax free why can’t napkins be?”, women have raised their voice.
Renowned Gynecologist from Bengaluru Padmini Prasad lashed out at the central government for levying 12 percent tax on sanitary pads. “Even now women in rural areas cannot afford to buy sanitary pads. I support this campaign,” she said.
Several women vented their anger against the present GST reform which PM Modi had labelled as “Good and Simple Tax.” They also demanded that sanitary pads should be given at a subsidised rate instead of putting taxes on them.
One of the Twitter users commented, “The only explanation for sanitary napkins being taxed at 12 percent under GST is that the GST Council has ‘only’ men on it and men don’t get periods.”
Another woman commented, “About 80 percent of the Indian women can’t afford proper menstrual hygiene.12 percent GST on sanitary napkins. 0 percent on sindoor, bangles and bindis. Do ask Mr Arun Jaitley why?”
Another woman supporting the campaign said, “Why luxury tax is levied on sanitary napkins! Only rich women bleed? Its high time we should know its an essential not luxury.”