Lok Sabha: MPs make candid confessions about personal struggle with tobacco
GST
Dated:- 3-12-2025
PTI
New Delhi, Dec 3 (PTI) A debate on a bill for overhauling the tax structure on tobacco products in Lok Sabha on Wednesday saw MPs making candid confessions about their personal struggles with tobacco use while urging stronger measures to curb its consumption.
The Central Excise (Amendment) Bill, 2025, seeks to replace the existing GST compensation cess on cigarettes, chewing tobacco, cigars, hookah, zarda and scented tobacco with a revised excise structure.
During the discussion, TMC MP Sougata Roy openly acknowledged his struggle with smoking.
“I have been a smoker myself and I am trying to quit the habit because people s
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entary constituency should have a space where quitting support can be initiated; medications and formulations should be made available. Even a 10–20% reduction can improve quality of life,” he said.
His remarks prompted a moment of light banter. TDP MP Lavu Sri Krishna Devarayalu said, “Kalanidhi spoke very emotionally… he is a doctor and explained all the ill effects of smoking, but he still smokes 40 cigarettes a day. That is the problem we have in this country.” The Chair intervened, asking, “Is it necessary to disclose on the floor of the House?” Currently, tobacco products attract 28% GST plus a variable cess. Under the proposed regime, unmanufactured tobacco would face an excise duty of 60-70%, cigars and cheroots would be taxed
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