Shimla, Feb 23 (UNI) The Shimla unit of the CPI(M) has decided to launch a protest against the annual hike in water, garbage and property tax rates, which will come into effect from April 1.
Shimla district unit secretary Vijander Mehra said in a press release issued on Monday that residents have been facing a 10 per cent annual increase in water, garbage and property taxes. He said such recurring hikes are likely to disturb the budget of every common household in Shimla town.
He alleged that a new tax regime has been introduced under which taxes are being increased every year. “People are paying more taxes but getting nothing in return. Most of the levies collected by civic bodies and the state government are being transferred towards payment of committed liabilities, while essential services like water and garbage management are becoming costlier,” he said.
Mehra further stated that the hike in property tax would also burden tenants, as landlords may pass the additional cost to them. It would also impact homeowners who are already paying monthly installments on housing loans.
Citing the State Economic Survey, he claimed that per capita tax in the state has increased to around Rs 45,000 per annum. However, he alleged that the common individual does not benefit proportionately from state expenditure.
He also alleged that there is pressure from various corporate houses on the state and Central governments to withdraw subsidies and impose higher taxes and user charges on basic services, including sanitation and health.
HP CPI(M) to protest againist annual hike in water, garbage & property taxes
