Recent reports have caused a stir in Himachal Pradesh, alleging that the state government had imposed a ‘toilet tax’. According to these reports, the tax was supposedly levied at ₹25 per toilet seat for residents, amounting to 25% of a ₹100 water bill.
The move was said to have been enacted in the morning but then revoked hours later. However, Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has outright denied these claims.
Mr. Sukhu clarified that no such toilet tax had been implemented, and the rumours were unfounded. Despite this, the initial reports triggered widespread reactions, especially in the context of sanitation and public welfare.
Unlock Expertise in Tax Audits under Section 44AB – Enroll Now
On September 21 this year, the Himachal Pradesh government reportedly issued a circular proposing a ₹25 tax per toilet seat for commercial establishments and hotels, sparking widespread controversy across the state.
Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, who posted her thoughts on X (formerly known as Twitter). She expressed her disbelief and criticised the alleged move. “Unbelievable, if true!” she wrote. “Whilst PM@narendramodiji, builds Swachhata as a people’s movement, here is INCIndia taxing people for toilets! Shame that they didn’t provide good sanitation during their time, but this step will shame the country!“
Imposing taxes on basic necessities reflects a harsh and inconsiderate approach towards the very people a government is meant to serve. Such measures can disproportionately burden lower-income people, making essential services less accessible and affordable.
Though the Himachal Pradesh government has firmly denied the imposition of toilet tax, the idea itself isn’t entirely new. Several countries around the world have experimented with similar policies, particularly in the form of sewerage and sanitation taxes.
For instance, in Germany, residents are required to pay wastewater fees, which cover the cost of sewage treatment and sanitation infrastructure maintenance. The amount is often based on water usage and ensures the upkeep of sanitation services.
Unlock Expertise in Tax Audits under Section 44AB – Enroll Now
In Japan, there is also a form of sanitation-related tax, where fees are collected for sewerage services. However, these are typically bundled with broader utility charges and are aimed at maintaining the country’s advanced sewage treatment infrastructure.
Support our journalism by subscribing to Taxscan premium. Follow us on Telegram for quick updates