Jugsalai Residents Unite Against 20% Holding Tax Hike, Movement Announced

Jamshedpur: In a strong show of public dissent, residents of Jugsalai have launched a collective protest against the recent 20 percent hike in holding tax, calling the move arbitrary and implemented without consultation with elected representatives. A large meeting of senior citizens held at the Jugsalai Jain Bhawan resolved to oppose the decision and initiate a phased mass movement.

Association revived to lead protest

To spearhead the agitation, the historic Jugsalai Rent Payers Association—originally formed before Independence under the leadership of freedom fighter Kanhaiya Lal Puriya—was reconstituted. Sardar Shailendra Singh was appointed President, while a Board of Patrons comprising prominent local figures, including Murli Dhar Kedia, Jogi Mishra, Jaiprakash Singh, Mahendra Pal Singh, Surendra Pal Singh, Shiv Kumar Sharma, Mohammad Zubaid, Sheela Nath Singh, and Gurmukh Singh, was formed.

The authority to appoint the remaining office bearers has been entrusted to the President.

Delegations to meet officials

As part of the first phase of the movement, it was decided that delegations would meet officials of the Jugsalai Municipal Council, including Chairman Naushin Khan, Vice-Chairperson Archana Dubey, and ward councillors, to submit memorandums demanding withdrawal of the tax hike.

Subsequently, delegations will also meet the District Deputy Commissioner and local Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs), urging them to intervene and press for revocation of the increased tax.

Call to boycott increased tax

In a significant appeal, the association urged residents not to pay the revised holding tax under any circumstances. Citizens were advised that they may deposit the old tax amount if accepted by authorities, but should collectively resist paying the increased amount.

Warning of intensified agitation

Addressing the gathering, President Sardar Shailendra Singh warned that the agitation would be intensified if the government fails to respond. He stated that the Jugsalai market could be shut down as part of the protest and that a delegation may meet Hemant Soren and the Urban Development Minister to seek immediate intervention.

He further added that, if required, the matter would be taken to the Jharkhand High Court.

Large turnout, strong reactions

The meeting witnessed participation from hundreds of residents, including social workers, traders, and community representatives. Many attendees expressed strong resentment over the tax hike, raising slogans during the proceedings.

The session was conducted by Ajay Kumar Pandey and Sunil Gupta, while the vote of thanks was delivered by Umashankar Parihar. The gathering reflected growing public anger and a collective resolve to challenge the decision through organized protest.