Protests have erupted in Silchar over illegal increases in municipal taxes imposed by the district administration-run municipality. The Progotishil Nagorik Somonnoy Mancha organized a protest on Monday, gathering in front of the Silchar Municipal Board from 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM to voice their opposition.
The term of the Silchar Municipal Board expired in 2019, but elections have been postponed for five years. The board is currently managed by the district administration, resulting in disruptions to vital services such as water drainage, waste management, and clean drinking water. Additionally, the Municipality has raised municipal taxes, including those for water and trade licenses.
According to regulations, only an elected municipal board has the authority to increase taxes. Despite attempts to address the issue with the district magistrate and officials of Municipality, no resolution has been reached.
During the protest, participants held placards and banners and chanted slogans against the tax hikes. Speakers criticized the tax increase and questioned the delay in municipal elections. Former board chairman Tamal Kanti Banik raised concerns about the prolonged election delay.
Basudev Sharma, a leading organizer, appealed to the public not to pay the increased taxes until municipal elections are held. The protest received support from various groups, including the Fatak Bazar Merchant Association, Goldighi Mall Merchant Welfare Association, Youths Against Social Evil and others.