SRINAGAR: The Kashmir Chamber of Commerce & Industry (KCC&I) has expressed its opposition to the government’s decision to impose property tax in Jammu & Kashmir. In a recent meeting of the Executive Committee, the KCC&I stated that the sentiment of trade, commerce, and industry in the union territory is low, and people are not in a position to bear the burden of paying the property tax at this stage.
The KCC&I believes that Jammu & Kashmir has undergone a long spell of disturbed periods during which time businesses and citizens have suffered and depleted their assets and lifetime savings. While some sectors have shown signs of revival, it is not advisable to burden people with more taxes, especially considering the post-Covid economic scenario.
The KCC&I draw the attention of authorities to the global sentiment of revival and requests them to reconsider imposing property tax, at least until the economic scenario stabilizes. The Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir being a landlocked tier 3 state, cannot be compared justifiably with Delhi, Chandigarh, or other UT or states, the KCC&I added.
The KCC&I appeals to the administration to put the notified property tax on hold, and instead consult with stakeholders before making any decision. The KCC&I remind authorities that property tax was levied in the past but had to be withdrawn for obvious reasons.
