Pay more tax for second car

Pay more tax for second car

Bhargavi Kerur & Bosky Khanna. Bangalore


The state government's proposal to increase tax rates for those who own two cars and more has been criticised by style icons and celebrities in the city known for their fashion statement.
For many high-spending citizens, introduction of this taxation system will lead to corruption but would not discourage people from purchasing a second car.
They feel that people would rather start buying cars in the name of family members and resort to wrong means to maintain their status symbol.
Fashion guru Prasad Bidappa says, "The government should follow the London model where commuters traveling to the city central are levied toll tax. This system will help reduce traffic snarls and increase the usage of public transport. Imposition of higher taxes for owning extra cars seems like the government is punishing tax payers."
Bidappa is not the only one who mocks at the rule. Sandalwood star Adithya adds, "Tax payers are extensively burdened as Karnataka collects the highest tax in India.. Does the state want to set a world record?"
Theatre artist Ruby Chakraborthy adds, "The government should instead improve the infrastructure and public transport system, rather than filling their coffers by burdening tax payers."
She goes on to say that if the government's aim is to reduce traffic snarls in the city, the number of cars used in VIP convoys should be reduced. Most celebrities said that public transport services should be strengthened. Work on the Metro should also be speeded up.
Car designer Prashant Jodidar said that the additional taxes will not help much in curbing traffic congestion. "If the government wants to reduce traffic, it must introduce lane discipline and follow international standards for roads. These taxes will hardly help," he said.