Guwahati, Sept. 3 -- As the 56th GST Council meeting got underway on Wednesday, opposition-ruled states actively demanded clear revenue protection measures and consumer safeguards in light of the proposed tax reform.

According to sources, the central government is considering a simplified two-slab GST structure, 5% and 18%, that could make daily essentials and electronics cheaper, while placing higher taxes on luxury items.

Opposition leaders emphasized that businesses must not profiteer from lower GST rates and insisted that consumers directly receive the benefits of reduced taxation.

They also urged the Centre to lay out a transparent compensation plan, warning that without it, states could suffer significant revenue shortfalls.

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