In a heated legislative assembly session on Thursday, Fatorda MLA Vijai Sardessai brought to the forefront the burden of increased taxes faced by the people of Goa, particularly in the southern region. He expressed his concerns about the recent hikes in house, garbage, and other taxes, which have been causing significant difficulties for the common man. Sardessai urged the government not to increase taxes further and instead offer concessions to loyal taxpayers.
However, in response to Sardessai's demands, Minister Vishwajeet Rane was unable to provide immediate assurance in the assembly but assured that the matter would be thoroughly examined.
Another contentious issue raised by Vijai Sardessai was the proliferation of unauthorized residential and commercial structures within the Margao Municipal area. He strongly advocated for the withdrawal of sanitation tax hikes on genuine taxpayers, emphasizing the need for a fair and equitable tax system.
In response to this issue, TCP Minister Vishwajeet Rane announced a plan to conduct a Geographic Information System (GIS) survey in both urban areas of North and South Goa districts. Additionally, he promised to initiate an inquiry into the missing GIS survey report of the Margao Municipal Council.
Despite these assurances, Vijai Sardessai expressed dissatisfaction with the government's delay in conducting the GIS survey inquiry. He criticized the administration for not taking swift action to resolve the matter.
Meanwhile, Margao MLA Digamber Kamat also voiced his concerns in the assembly, demanding a rationalization of tax structures. He emphasized the importance of developing a tax format that would minimize the impact on the common man.