New Delhi: The Lok Sabha passed the ‘Health Security Se National Security Cess Bill’ through a voice vote after a charged debate that witnessed both support and sharp criticism from members across party lines.

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, piloting the legislation, clarified that the proceeds of the cess would be strictly ring-fenced for two purposes; strengthening India’s national security and supporting public health.

She emphasised that the levy was Constitutionally empowered under Article 270, fully accountable to the Parliament, and subject to oversight by the Comptroller and Auditor General of India.

Passing the Bill, Minister Sitharaman said: “That the Bill to augment the resources for meeting expenditure on national security and for public health, and to levy a ces

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