Tax hike on forest products affecting poor: UBA
Source: Chronicle News Service
Kakching, November 25 2022:
Following the implementation of the government order issued on November 10 to increase tax on forest products, people who are sustaining their families by indulging in small-time firewood business are facing tremendous inconveniences, said Unique Business Association (UBA), Chandel.
Speaking to media persons at Penaching village in Chandel district on Friday, UBA vice president Ng Jacob, while referring to the recent order, informed that the government's decision is hitting hard the marginalise section of the society, especially those depending on sale of firewood as source of sustenance.
Citing hardships of the affected community, he urged authorities concerned to fix different tax rates on transportation of firewood based on the load.
While alleging that the Divisional Forest Officer (DFO), Chandel has been indulging in corrupt practices, Jacob continued that the DFO levied tax of Rs 12 lakh on work agencies engaged in construction of roads in Chandel district on the charge of unauthorised mining/quarrying in forest land, charged Rs 50,000 each from saw mills and took Rs 2 lakh for releasing the vehicles seized.
Condemning such acts of the DFO, UBA submitted a memorandum to the government for transferring the officer from Chandel, he re called, while reiterating the same demand.
He also cautioned of launching intense protest by joining hands with the people if the DFO is question remains at the same place of posting.