GANGTOK: The Citizen Action Party-Sikkim (CAP) has commented on the reduction in motor vehicle taxes announced by the Transport department. The tax, which had previously been increased significantly, has now been lowered by 10-20%.
“Although our party had advocated for a more substantial reduction of 20-30%, this partial cut is a step in the right direction. The Citizen Action Party-Sikkim assures the people of Sikkim that when we form the government in 2029, we will thoroughly review all tax policies and take appropriate measures to ensure fair and equitable taxation,” said CAP Sikkim spokesperson Pobin Hang Subba in a media statement on October 3.
Subba asserted that CAP Sikkim, despite not being given the mandate by the voters in the 2024 elections, where the party stood in third place, remains committed to fighting for the rights and welfare of the Sikkimese people. We have consistently raised our voice against injustices, including this unreasonable tax hike, which has added to the financial burdens of our citizens already struggling with high inflation and economic difficulties, he said.
“We had issued an ultimatum to the concerned department, demanding the revision of the tax rates or face further consequences. In line with this, the Citizen Action Party-Sikkim submitted a memorandum to the Hon’ble Chief Justice of Sikkim on 1st October 2024, the very day the tax hike was imposed on the people. Today, just two days later, on 3rd October 2024, the notification for the reduction in taxes was issued. This development is a clear testament to the importance of a strong opposition in a democracy and reinforces the principle that “the voice of the opposition matters.”
“On behalf of the people of Sikkim, the Citizen Action Party-Sikkim expresses its gratitude to the concerned authorities to whom the party had approached for their timely intervention, which has brought much-needed relief to our citizens during these challenging times,” said Subba.
The recent tax reduction is a victory for the people, and we will keep pushing for policies that serve their best interests, said the CAP Sikkim spokesperson.
- SA Report
