Shillong: The National People’s Party is banking on a massive tax break to win voters. Deputy Chief Minister Sniawbhalang Dhar touted the One-Time Settlement scheme during a rally in Sutnga. He is stumping for party candidate Dr. DRL Nonglait ahead of the Shillong parliamentary by-election. The government cut pending vehicle dues to help owners struggling after the pandemic and coal mining restrictions.
Dhar stated 1.70 lakh vehicles had defaulted on over Rs 1,050 crore in taxes. Rather than aggressive enforcement, officials chose a path of relief. "The Cabinet approved an 80 per cent waiver on other taxes and a 90 per cent waiver on fitness fees, resulting in the waiver of nearly Rs 850 crore from the total outstanding dues," Dhar said. He warned owners to settle the remaining balance before the August 31 deadline.
Dhar pushed back against critics claiming the government ignores anyone but contractors. He touted a Rs 21,000-crore greenfield highway project from Umroi to Ratacherra. This road aims to cut the trip from Khliehriat to Guwahati to two-and-a-half hours. Water connections also hit five lakh, up from just 7,000 in 2018. The state added a new college in Jaintia Hills and pushed Rs 600-700 crore in loans to Self-Help Groups.
Dr. Nonglait needs these wins. He brings experience from the Police Complaints Authority to the table. The NPP hopes this record drives him to victory.
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