Chandigarh, 27 February — Chandigarh Congress has strongly opposed the proposed property tax hike, accusing the BJP and the Chandigarh administration of working together to impose an unjust financial burden on residents.
Chandigarh Congress President HS Lucky alleged that the BJP initially pushed for an increase in property tax rates from 3% to 12% during a municipal corporation meeting but was forced to withdraw the proposal due to strong resistance from Congress and other opposition councillors.
“The BJP has been attempting to introduce new financial burdens on residents,” Lucky stated. “They earlier tried to increase the sewerage cess but failed due to the vigilance and numerical strength of the opposition.”
He further criticized the BJP for failing to secure additional funds for the cash-strapped municipal corporation after electing its mayor. Instead of seeking financial assistance from the central government or the Chandigarh administration, the party was shifting the burden onto the public, he said.
Reaffirming Congress’ stance, Lucky mentioned that his party would support the new mayor in securing the municipal corporation’s rightful financial share from the Chandigarh administration, in line with the 3rd and 4th Delhi Finance Commission reports. However, he made it clear that Congress would firmly oppose any move to impose additional taxes on residents.
