The cost of lottery tickets increased by ₹10 only two months ago. Even that rise, according to some in the industry, had a detrimental impact on sales.
Kochi: As lottery workers and agents around the state get ready to stage a protest over the new increase in the GST on lottery tickets, an unprecedented crisis is developing in Kerala. There are increasing worries that the cost of tickets may go up by at least ₹10.
The cost of lottery tickets increased by ₹10 only two months ago. Even that rise, according to some in the industry, had a detrimental impact on sales. Millions of low-income individuals purchase lottery tickets in the hopes of improving their position in life. More price increases are likely to have a negative effect on sales. There is a genuine chance that lottery sales across the state may stop if the demonstration becomes more intense.
A widespread demonstration can result in fewer tickets being available and disturbances during lottery drawings. Over one lakh workers in the industry, including those with impairments, would suffer greatly if they had no income.
According to the government, any volatility in the lottery industry would have a big impact on income. Now, the tax rate is 40% instead of 28%. This sudden surge coincides with the Thiruvonam Bumper lottery‘s sales. Days before the Thiruvonam Bumper draw on the 29th, on September 22, the updated tax will go into force. Due to the uncertainties surrounding the implementation of the increased taxes, the Onam Bumper, which offers a ₹25 crore first prize and many other significant prizes, is now in doubt.
According to the Finance Minister, the federal government has not taken into consideration the state’s request for a delayed implementation, which brought up these issues. The state administration has called a meeting with all parties involved on Wednesday to continue the conversation in light of these concerns.
Various labor unions have joined the Joint Action Committee to announce a September 15 march to the Raj Bhavan. After that, there will be a march to Parliament after further protests in several districts. The only state in the nation using a paper lottery system is Kerala. The state also conducts six bumper lotteries in addition to everyday drawings that take place throughout the week. If you exclude the bumper tickets, the average number of lottery tickets sold each day is 1.08 crore.