Sitharaman Introduces 28% GST on Online Gaming; Gig Workers’ Rights Bill Resolution in Rajya Sabha

New Delhi, August 11, 2023: The current session of Parliament is on track to conclude on Friday after three weeks marked by intense debates and clashes between the Opposition and the ruling party over the ethnic violence in Manipur.

The suspension of Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury, Congress MP and Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, is expected to be a significant focus during the proceedings in the Lower House. Sonia Gandhi, Chairperson of the Congress Parliamentary Party, has called a meeting of Lok Sabha MPs to address Chowdhury’s suspension.

Meanwhile, in the Lok Sabha, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is slated to introduce the Central Goods and Services Tax (Amendment) Bill, 2023, aimed at imposing a 28% GST on online gaming, casinos, and horse racing. Sitharaman will also present the Integrated Goods and Services Tax (Amendment) Bill, 2023, for discussion and passage.

In the Rajya Sabha, CPI MP Binoy Viswam plans to put forth a private member resolution for a Gig Workers’ Rights Bill, advocating for mandatory registration of aggregators and workers, issuance of unique IDs, provision of minimum wages, and the establishment of a Gig-Workers’ Welfare Fund.

Moreover, RJD MP Manoj Jha has initiated a suspension of business notice in the Rajya Sabha, urging discussion on the Manipur situation and demanding a statement from Prime Minister Narendra Modi on the matter.

During a recent no-confidence motion debate, PM Modi emphasized his commitment to restoring peace in Manipur, describing it as a part of his heart and asserting that efforts were underway for the state’s progress. The Lok Sabha ultimately rejected the no-confidence motion through a voice vote.

The no-confidence motion was introduced by the opposition on July 26 and was addressed by Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla.