"Against the Constitution’: Mizoram MP objects to Mizos being asked for tax proofs

In a significant intervention during the ongoing Winter Session of Parliament, Mizoram’s lone Rajya Sabha Member, K. Vanlalvena, on Wednesday, December 10, voiced strong objections to Mizos being asked to secure income tax exemption certificates—an action he described as inconsistent with constitutional guarantees.

Raising the issue in the Upper House, Vanlalvena stressed that Section 10(26) of the Income Tax Act clearly exempts tribal communities residing in specified areas, including Mizoram, from paying income tax. He asserted that this exemption is rooted in the Constitution of India and has long safeguarded the rights of tribal populations.

However, despite this unambiguous legal provision, several Mizos are reportedly being directed by the Income Tax Office in Guwahati to obtain exemption certificates before their claims are accepted. Vanlalvena pointed out that even when Mizos furnish tribal certificates and relevant identity documents, officials continue to question their eligibility, creating unwarranted hardship and bureaucratic delays.

Calling the practice a violation of constitutional protections, the MP urged corrective measures. He informed the House that he has formally appealed to the Rajya Sabha Chairman to intervene and instruct the Principal Chief Commissioner of Income Tax, Guwahati, to issue a clear directive ensuring adherence to the law and preventing further inconvenience to Mizos.