Tax hike sparks massive protest in Silchar; citizens demand immediate action.

On August 10, 2024, the Progressive Citizen Coordination Forum organized a significant protest in the greater Malugram area of Silchar, rallying against the steep increase in water taxes, municipal taxes, and other levies. The protest, which began at 4 PM in front of Durgabari in Aryapatti, proceeded through several key areas, including Deviprasad Pathshala, Madhuramukh, Ghaniyala Mokam, and concluded at Itkhola Tematha.

Prominent figures such as Haridas Dutta, an advisor to the forum, lawyer Jyotiprakash Bhattacharya, acting president lawyer Dhruba Saha, general secretary Basudev Sharma, and others, addressed the gathering. The speakers condemned the municipality's decision to hike the water tax from ₹125 to ₹300, alongside increases in trade license fees, land transaction taxes, and document charges. They argued that, under municipal law, only an elected board has the authority to impose such tax increases.

The protestors also highlighted the poor state of Silchar’s infrastructure, particularly the city’s neglected roads and unscientific drainage systems, which exacerbate waterlogging even with slight rainfall. They accused the municipality of turning the city into a "garbage dump" and failing to address the basic needs of the citizens despite the additional financial burden imposed on them.

The demonstration witnessed significant participation from concerned citizens, who expressed their frustration over the lack of municipal accountability and the growing financial strain on households. The speakers warned that if the unjust tax hikes were not reversed, the protests would intensify, reflecting the broader discontent with the current state of municipal governance in Silchar.