In Meerut, Unsold Bats Tell A Tale of Simmering Anger with GST

Bat and ball manufacturers in Meerut have seen a dip in their business due to GST — even in IPL season.

(Photo: Shadab Moizee/The Quint)

Video Editor: Mohd Irshad Alam

"Because of GST, we have little to no work. With 12% GST, no buyer is placing orders," says Rajesh Kapoor, a manufacturer in Meerut, who is one of the many bat and ball manufacturers who have been hit by the implementation of GST on sports equipment.

As a part of 2019 election reportage, The Quint reached Meerut to find simmering anger and dissatisfaction with the NDA government's GST policy.

"While earlier a ball used to cost Rs 100, after GST, the ball costs Rs 130," says Harsh, a leather ball manufacturer in the city. This rise in cost often means piles of unsold product for manufacturers and then, losses. Even IPL season – usually a busy time for these manufacturers – has brought them no work.

What do they want from the new government? A focus on issues which matter to them — jobs, business and development. Watch the full story here.