Dear Sandesh,
I understand your perspective, but I strongly disagree with the notion
that people with disabilities who can afford Apple products should be
okay with paying 5% GST on assistive devices. The issue here is about
accessibility and equal opportunities, not just affordability. Many
individuals with disabilities face significant challenges and
expenses, and advocating for discounts or exemptions on assistive
technologies is crucial for promoting inclusivity.
It's also worth noting that Apple offers student discounts, so why not
disability discounts? It's not about "playing the disability card" but
about recognizing the unique needs and challenges faced by people with
disabilities.
I believe it's essential to consider the perspectives of individuals
who rely on assistive devices and work towards creating a more
inclusive society.
*From:*[email protected] <[email protected]>
*On Behalf Of *Sandesh
*Sent:* Saturday, September 6, 2025 2:28 PM
*To:* [email protected]
*Subject:* Re: [AI] GST 2.0: A Reform that Still Taxes Disability
This perspective is also fine, but there are apple and mac users also.
And few days back, some questioned about reduced rates of IPhones were
also come on the list. Those happily purchasing such devices should
not speak these things. And if you are fine with devices, you should
be OK with 5% GST. If government removes this slab, It's fine, but it
doesn't, then I am with the government since this is not that an issue
as it is shown to be. And second point is already well explained by
Avichal, that there are plenty of organisations who distribute such
accessibility things like softwares etc free of cost. Raisers of such
questions smartly keep these things aside and ......... I won't speak
further, it might perhaps take unnecessary turn to the discussion.
Yes, again, my last few cents are nothing wrong with 5% of GST.
Vande Mataram
----- Original Message -----
*From:*Mujtaba Merchant <mailto:[email protected]>
*To:*[email protected]
*Sent:*Friday, September 5, 2025 7:08 PM
*Subject:*RE: [AI] GST 2.0: A Reform that Still Taxes Disability
Dear Avichal,
It's not just about agreeing to disagree; it's about understanding
the perspective of people with disabilities who face unique
challenges and expenses. Many of us are not paid equally to our
able-bodied counterparts, and assistive devices are essential, not
luxuries. The tax burden adds to our already strained financial
situation.
You're right that some NGOs distribute assistive devices, but
that's not a solution for everyone. Many people don't qualify for
these distributions, and even when they do, it's often a temporary
fix. We need systemic changes that make assistive technologies
accessible and affordable for all.
Moreover, we must also consider the burden borne by caregivers and
families of people with disabilities. The financial strain of
medical expenses and assistive technologies can be overwhelming,
impacting not just the individual but the entire family. By
reducing or exempting taxes on these essential devices, we can
help alleviate some of the financial burdens and promote greater
inclusivity and support.
Furthermore, the employment rate for persons with disabilities in
India is a significant concern. With nearly 64% of persons with
disabilities not having jobs, it's crucial that we address the
systemic barriers that prevent us from participating in the
workforce. By providing accessible education, training, and
employment opportunities, we can work towards a more inclusive
society.
Regarding your comment about "raving and ranting" and standing
with a "begging bowl," I understand that you might not intend to
come across as dismissive, but it's essential to recognize that
advocacy is crucial for creating a more inclusive society. We're
not asking for charity; we're seeking equal opportunities and
access to resources that can help us thrive.
You mentioned being happy to pay GST, citing its benefits for the
country. While taxes do contribute to the country's development,
it's essential to consider the disproportionate impact on people
with disabilities. We face additional expenses for assistive
devices, medical care, and other necessities. By exempting these
devices from GST, the government can help level the playing field
and promote inclusivity.
Let's work together to raise awareness and push for policies that
support people with disabilities. We can create a more equitable
society where everyone has access to the resources they need to
succeed.
*From:*[email protected]
<[email protected]> *On Behalf Of *Avichal Bhatnagar
*Sent:* Friday, September 5, 2025 6:06 PM
*To:* [email protected]
*Subject:* Re: [AI] GST 2.0: A Reform that Still Taxes Disability
Hi mujtaba,
Your opinion is well taken; we can always agree to disagree.
The point is that in majority of the cases that I have come
across, the assistive devices are distributed by different
NGO's in bulk, thus making it free for the consumers.
Therefore, the tax doesn't become a burden.
Moreover, those who do not qualify in the ambit of distribution
due to high family incomes can and must pay the tax.
On Fri, Sep 5, 2025 at 5:59 PM Mujtaba Merchant
<[email protected]> wrote:
Dear Avichal,
I'm shocked and disappointed by your reaction to Shruti's
column about the GST on assistive devices. It's disheartening
to see someone from our own community dismiss the struggles of
others who are differently privileged. Assistive technologies
like wheelchairs, hearing aids, and screen readers are not
luxuries; they're necessities that can greatly improve the
quality of life for people with disabilities.
The argument that people should just "afford" these devices
ignores the reality of economic disparities within the
disability community. Many individuals and families struggle
to make ends meet, and adding a tax burden only exacerbates
their challenges.
Rather than criticizing Shruti for advocating for change,
perhaps we should be working together to raise awareness and
push for policies that support inclusivity and accessibility.
Let's focus on creating a more equitable society where
everyone has access to the resources they need to thrive.
*From:*[email protected]
<[email protected]> *On Behalf Of *Avichal Bhatnagar
*Sent:* Friday, September 5, 2025 5:33 PM
*To:* [email protected]
*Subject:* Re: [AI] GST 2.0: A Reform that Still Taxes Disability
Unnecessary raving and ranting. Why do we, the disabled always
have to stand with a begging bowl? I am more than happy to pay
GST of five percent, as I know how this tax helps the country;
the best example was the procurement of the air defence
system, which greatly helped us in repelling all air
born attacks from Pakistan during operation Sindoor.
On Thu, Sep 4, 2025 at 1:43 PM shruti pushkarna
<[email protected]> wrote:
Hi all,
The GST Council says the aim is to “lower the tax burden
on common people, ease blocked working capital, and
facilitate ease of doing business.” But where is the
disabled common man or woman in this narrative? My mother,
who has rheumatoid arthritis, has had 11 surgeries—some
related to her condition, many not. And yet, every
hospital admission turns into a battle with insurers who
use her chronic illness as an excuse to delay or deny
claims. Meanwhile, televisions and refrigerators get tax
relief, but assistive devices like wheelchairs, hearing
aids, or screen readers remain taxed as if they were
luxuries. If GST 2.0 is “next-gen reform,” it is still a
generation too late for disability households.
Read my full column on why the cost of living for persons
with disabilities remains invisible in policy, and
painfully expensive in practice.
https://shruti-pushkarna.medium.com/gst-2-0-a-reform-that-still-taxes-disability-382768cfe485
Best,
Shruti
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