Complete unlicensed property survey before tax increase

Fatorda MLA Vijai Sardesai is supporting local citizens in their protests against a large tax increase proposed by the Margao Municipal Council (MMC). He has called for the tax hike to be paused until the council completes a survey of unlicensed properties in the area. Sardesai spoke with a group of citizens, including former council chairperson Savio Coutinho, who met with him to express their concerns. They argue that the council must assess the estimated 45% of properties that are not currently licensed before deciding to raise taxes. The MMC claims the tax increase is only 20%, but demonstrators say it is much higher. Some reports show tax hikes reaching between 66% and 550%. Coutinho pointed out that no notices published by the MMC support the 20% claim. Sardesai plans to address this issue in the assembly. He may do so through a special motion or during the governor's address if the government does not respond. A protest is scheduled for March 28 outside the Margao Municipal Council building. Protesters want the MMC to assess unlicensed properties before putting more financial pressure on current taxpayers.