Toilet Seat Tax? Himachal Government Says No Way! CM Sukhu Denies Sewerage Fee Reports Amid Financial Crisis!

SHIMLA, India – The Himachal Pradesh government has issued a clarification regarding reports suggesting that residents may face a sewerage tax based on the number of toilet seats in their homes. The state’s Water Resources Department denied these claims, emphasizing that no such notification has been issued by the current government.

Recent media reports indicated that the government, led by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, planned to introduce a tax of ₹25 per month on each toilet seat installed in homes across the hill state. However, the department stressed that sewerage connections will continue to be provided as before, with the goal of achieving 100 percent connectivity to reduce pollution and ensure proper sewage treatment.

Clarification from the Water Resources Department

In a statement, the Water Resources Department said, “Our aim is to achieve 100 percent connectivity to minimize pollution and ensure proper treatment of sewage. Recently, a notification regarding water charges was issued, while all other aspects remain unchanged.”

The statement was a response to widespread reports suggesting a new tax policy aimed at taxing households based on the number of toilet seats.

Financial Crisis in Himachal Pradesh

It’s important to note that Himachal Pradesh is currently grappling with a financial crisis. Last month, the state government faced delays in disbursing salaries for state employees and pensions for retirees, with payments lagging by five days. In August, Chief Minister Sukhu announced that he and the state’s chief parliamentary secretary would forgo their salaries and allowances for the next two months. He also appealed to other members of the assembly to voluntarily give up their salaries and allowances to help the state navigate this economic turmoil.

The confusion surrounding the potential toilet seat tax has added to the challenges faced by the state government as it attempts to manage its financial difficulties while maintaining public trust and transparency. As the situation develops, officials will continue to communicate clearly with residents about any changes in policy or fees.