Lucknow Mayor Takes Strong Stand Against Tax Collection Malpractices
In a significant development, Lucknow Mayor Sushma Kharkwal has issued a stern reprimand to municipal commissioner Gaurav Kumar and Jalkal general manager Kuldeep Singh regarding serious irregularities in the collection of house and water taxes. The mayor's intervention highlights growing concerns over administrative lapses and potential corruption within the city's tax assessment system.
Unauthorized Private Involvement in Tax Collection
In her official letter, Mayor Kharkwal expressed deep concern that tax inspectors across several zones were failing to perform their field duties personally. Instead, they were reportedly delegating tax assessment and collection responsibilities to private individuals. This unauthorized practice has raised serious questions about accountability and transparency in the municipal tax process.
Numerous complaints have surfaced alleging that these private persons engaged in inappropriate behavior with building owners, including misbehavior and extortion of illegal money. Their actions have reportedly created an atmosphere of fear among taxpayers, undermining public trust in the municipal administration.
Allegations of Corruption and Bribery
The mayor specifically pointed to allegations that some tax inspectors were deliberately inflating annual property valuations, only to later demand bribes from property owners to reduce these assessments. This manipulative practice not only exploits citizens but also represents a significant loss of legitimate revenue for the municipal corporation.
Kharkwal cited a concerning case from the Jalkal department where an employee allegedly raised a water bill arbitrarily and then demanded illegal payment to correct the inflated amount. Such incidents highlight systemic issues that require immediate attention and corrective measures.
Call for Authorized Personnel Only
Emphasizing the need for proper protocol, Mayor Kharkwal insisted that only authorized tax inspectors should conduct field duties related to tax assessment and collection. This directive aims to eliminate middlemen and ensure that all tax-related activities are carried out by accountable municipal employees following established procedures.
When approached for comments on these serious allegations, Jalkal General Manager Kuldeep Singh declined to provide any statement, leaving questions about departmental accountability unanswered. The mayor's strong stance signals a push for greater oversight and reform in Lucknow's municipal tax administration to protect citizens from exploitation and ensure fair collection practices.
