Cottonians Condemn Govt Decision to Impose 18% GST on Bihu Artistes

Guwahati, January 11, 2020:

Students of Cotton University have condemned the government’s decision to impose eighteen percent Goods & Services Tax (GST) on Artistes performing in Bihu and cultural shows.

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Bihu Artistes will now have to pay eighteen percent of their payments as Goods and Services Tax (GST) after they receive their payment cheques from Bihu cultural programme organisers.

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The Government has issued Directives to the Bihu committees and cultural show organisers in this regard to comply with the new regulations. And, henceforth, singers and musicians who will be performing in the Bihu functions organised across the state will now have to pay eighteen percent of their income earned as GST.

The move to bring the Bihu stage shows under the purview of GST has been widely criticized. “How dare they impose GST on Artistes on the occasion of Bihu? This is our Bihu. We will not let them make Bihu another mode of Business. We will not accept. This Fascist Modi-led government will not be entertained here”, said one of the locals, lambasting the Government’s policy to impose GST on Bihu artists.

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Another student of Gauhati University, said, “We are in a state of unrest because of the CAA. And now, we feel that the artists are being targeted by the Government with GST because of their protests against the legislation. The only time artists get paid is during Bihu time, so the Government is eyeing their livelihood. It is going to worsen the deplorable condition of artists. Instead of eyeing their earnings, the Government should ensure their livelihood", said another Cottonian.

It may be mentioned here that a decision to bring cultural shows, including stage Bihu shows, under the purview of the GST Act was taken in 2017, but it was not implemented in Assam.

Fashion Designer and wife of Assam Singer Zubeen Garg, who is also seen voicing her concerns on the issues pertaining to the state’s cultural identity said that the move has to be discussed well with members of the Artistes’ fraternity.

Bihu cultural shows are considered to be one of the biggest events, organised across the length and breadth of Assam. People often look forward to attending the stage shows to witness their favorite Artistes set the Bihu mood with Bihu and folk songs.

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