GST Relief for RWAs Stuck: Karnataka Revenue Minister Admits States Have Little Say, Centre Maintains ‘No Change’ Stance
Bengaluru: The demand from Resident Welfare Associations (RWAs) to reduce GST on apartment maintenance charges from 18% to 5% remains unresolved, with both the Union Government and the State Government of Karnataka indicating no immediate relief.
Responding to a query by TheBengaluruLive.com, Karnataka’s Revenue Minister and GST Council member Krishna Byre Gowda admitted that states have minimal influence in the decision-making process.
“Like the other states, Karnataka is also a GST Council member. My friend, in reality, we have very little say in any matter. All decisions are made by the Central Government and just placed for approval in the Council,” Gowda said.
Meanwhile, TheBengaluruLive.com also contacted the office of Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. An IAS officer clarified that there is “no change from the earlier position on RWAs.”
Apartment associations in Bengaluru and across Karnataka have repeatedly argued that the 18% GST on monthly maintenance charges above ₹7,500 per flat unfairly burdens middle-class residents, while basic civic services such as water, sanitation, and security should not be treated as luxury.
Also Read: CM Siddaramaiah Welcomes GST Rate Rationalisation, Slams Modi Government for Delayed Reform and Revenue Loss to States
For now, the long wait for GST relief and the persistent demand from apartment owners’ associations will continue, with hopes pinned on both the Union Government and the Government of Karnataka for a remedy.
About the Author
