The decision emphasises the idea that no organisation should be excused from funding public projects when it comes to business endeavours. The Customs, Excise and Service Tax Appellate Tribunal decided in October of last year that yoga camps run by the trust for a fee, even under the guise of a “donation,” qualified as a “health and fitness service” and were therefore liable to service tax.
The tribunal correctly noted that the services were similar to those offered by health clubs and fitness centres, coming under the taxable category, therefore it was a legitimate interpretation of the legislation. The trust’s claim that its services were not taxed since they were intended to treat illnesses was not persuasive.
Source: NDTV Profit
This decision is in line with a few other comparable rulings, including one rendered in February by the Kerala High Court. The Kerala Tax on Luxuries Act applied to the yoga and meditation fees, the High Court ruled. Consistency in tax administration and the reinforcement of equality before the law are ensured by uniform legal interpretation across jurisdictions.
This draws attention to the more general problem of ethical advertising and consumer safety.Patanjali Ayurved is under intense scrutiny due to the Drugs and Magic Remedies (Objectionable Advertisements) Act of 1954. As a result, the company needs to make sure that any claims made in advertisements—particularly those pertaining to health and wellness—are verifiable and accurate.
Source: Live Hindustan
Even while yoga is clearly good for mental and physical health, it is becoming more and more commercialised. Our legal system must adjust appropriately, finding a middle ground between encouraging enterprise and protecting the general welfare.
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