Himachal Pradesh CM Sukhu Clarifies No 'Toilet Tax' To Be Imposed, Accuses BJP of 'Politicising' Issue

Despite the BJP's criticism of the alleged tax as a sign of corruption, Sukhu claimed the BJP is raising false allegations for political gains.

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu announced on Friday that the state will not implement a 'toilet tax,' accusing BJP leaders of "politicising" the issue. During an event in Bilaspur, BJP National President and Union Health Minister J.P. Nadda criticised the Sukhu government, alleging that a tax on toilets reflects a "corruption of intellect and wisdom," adding that such a government "has no right to remain in power."

Responding to the BJP's claims, Sukhu remarked, "In the context of the Haryana Vidhan Sabha elections, the BJP is either playing the religion card or raising fabricated issues like the toilet tax.” He added, “No one should politicise issues purely for political gain, especially when the allegations are baseless," as reported by news agency PTI.

Sukhu also highlighted that before the 2022 Vidhan Sabha elections, the BJP government announced various voter-oriented schemes, including free water, and established institutions based on political motives. He pointed out that despite these efforts, the people of Himachal Pradesh chose to support the Congress party, noting that free water was also extended to luxury hotels.

The Chief Minister stated that the current government has taken steps to rationalise water subsidies and impose a minimal monthly charge of Rs 100 in rural areas.

Jal Shakti Department On Per Sewage Seat In Urban Areas

On 21 September, the state Jal Shakti Department issued a notification proposing a Rs 25 tax per sewage seat in urban areas, alongside a Rs 100 charge for water in rural areas. However, this notification was later withdrawn after being reviewed by Deputy Chief Minister Mukesh Agnihotri.

Agnihotri noted on social media that the BJP government had introduced a sewerage tax back in 2018. He explained that the government already levies a 30% sewerage charge on the total water bill.

Additional Chief Secretary Onkar Sharma clarified, "It was observed that some hotels and institutions were using their own water but relying on government-provided sewerage facilities. Consequently, a charge of Rs 25 per seat was proposed. However, when the notification was sent to Deputy Chief Minister Agnihotri for approval, the sewerage charges were subsequently withdrawn," as reported by PTI.