Ally Cong wants to increase tax gradually, CPM demands full withdrawal

The Tamil Nadu unit of the Congress party has asked the state government to reconsider the decision and suggested a gradual hike in property tax in the state.

In a statement, Alagiri said, “I think such an announcement might have been made without the knowledge of the chief minister.” People who are deeply affected by rise in price of all commodities due to the unprecedented price-hike of petrol, diesel and LPG cylinder would be adversely affected by this, he added, and urged the CM to announce that property tax will be increased gradually at the rate of 10% per annum.

However, CPM state secretary K Balakrishnan urged the state government to withdraw the property tax hike.

“People are still reeling from the economic crises caused by Covid, and price-hike of petrol, diesel and LPG, now we have property tax. It’s like rubbing salt on the wound,” he said in a statement.

“As per the TN Municipalities Act, the council has been empowered to decide on the taxes. After electing the representatives, this order is like taking away their powers,” he added.