Aizawl, May 5, 2025, Virthli (ONP): Mizoram Lok Sabha MP Pu Richard Vanlalhmangaiha has raised serious concerns over the misapplication of income tax laws affecting Scheduled Tribe (ST) communities, particularly in the Northeast. In a recent meeting with Pu Antar Singh Arya, Chairman of the National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST), the MP outlined growing issues faced by ST individuals, including pensioners, salaried employees, and public servants, who are reportedly facing unjust tax deductions despite their legal exemption under Section 10(26) of the Income Tax Act.
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| Image Courtesy: DIPR Mizoram |
During the meeting held at the NCST office in New Delhi, Pu Vanlalhmangaiha highlighted that tribal citizens numbering in the tens of lakhs nationwide - continue to face financial hardship due to persistent tax deductions such as TDS (Tax Deducted at Source) on income and pensions. He noted that despite clear legal provisions exempting ST individuals residing in their native states from paying income tax, many are still being subjected to unnecessary deductions, particularly those employed in central government offices and public sector banks.
The MP further revealed that several Income Tax Offices across the country have been compelling tribal individuals to file returns unnecessarily. He emphasized that this lack of clarity and administrative oversight has not only caused financial strain but also created confusion and distress among tribal communities - especially those unaware of their rights under the law.
In particular, he cited numerous cases where pensioners, ex-servicemen, and employees working within Mizoram and other tribal areas have had income tax routinely deducted from their salaries or retirement benefits, in clear violation of their exemption status. These actions, he stressed, are in direct contradiction to the spirit of Section 10(26), which aims to protect the financial autonomy of Scheduled Tribe populations within their traditional homelands.
Pu Antar Singh Arya acknowledged the concerns raised and assured the MP that the Commission will take the matter seriously. He expressed his commitment to examining the issue thoroughly and recommending appropriate measures to relevant authorities, including the Ministry of Finance and the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT), to ensure proper implementation of existing tax exemptions for ST communities.
The meeting concluded with a mutual understanding of the urgent need to address the inconsistencies and to initiate awareness campaigns among ST citizens regarding their tax rights.
This intervention by the Mizoram MP is seen as a critical step towards upholding the constitutional safeguards meant for tribal populations and ensuring that policy implementation aligns with the legal entitlements of indigenous communities—not just in Mizoram, but across India.
