SANGUEM
Residents at the Gram Sabha in Molcornem-Quepem on Sunday strongly opposed the sudden hike in the house and trade tax, claiming it to be totally unacceptable.
Raising their displeasure at the Gram Sabha, residents sought to know from Panchayat authorities over the reason for the sudden hike in the house and trade tax.
Incidentally, the Panchayat had reportedly increased the house and trade tax after discussion at the last Gram Sabha. But the villagers who appeared in large numbers for the November 17 Gram Sabha demanded that panchayat authorities roll back the house tax to the earlier rates. They argued that a person paying annual house tax of Rs 100 was now required to pay around Rs 400-500, which is much higher.
After hearing their views, Molcornem Sarpanch Rajesh Gaonkar assured to look into the matter and consider their demands.
Sources informed that the Panchayat had increased the house and trade tax after nearly 20 years.
The residents also resolved to demand a full-time secretary for the panchayat.
In the absence of a full-time secretary, villagers are facing difficulties in getting their work done.
The panchayat secretary presently working at Molcornem panchayat is holding additional charge of Xeldem panchayat, which has affected the administrative process at Molcornem panchayat, complained the residents.
