Highlighting the heavy burden placed on the public due to the tax hikes, SJB lawmaker Eran Wickramaratne said that it is a serious problem that the people have to take to the streets and called on the government to increase the PAYE tax threshold.
Speaking at a media briefing in Colombo, Wickramaratne said that he requested the President and the government to protect the middle class by increasing the existing PAYE tax threshold from existing Rs. 100,000 to 200,000 immediately.
As it is estimated that the government stands to lose approximately Rs. 40 billion if this is implemented, the former State Finance Minister suggested to recover this amount by increasing taxes of high income earners.
He pointed out that the loss of income has resulted in food insecurity and increased mal-nutrition among other issues.
