Road Rage: Entry Tax Protests Ignite Bilaspur

In Himachal Pradesh, a protest erupted in Bilaspur as individuals from Punjab opposed the increased entry tax on out-of-state vehicles. Despite a previous reduction, tensions remain high. BJP MLA Janak Raj supported the demonstrators, criticizing the government's stance. The unrest seems slated to continue until the charges are reconsidered.

Traffic came to a standstill in Bilaspur, Himachal Pradesh, as individuals from Punjab staged a protest against the hike in entry tax on vehicles registered outside the state. The increased tax has incited public outcry since it was implemented.

BJP MLA Janak Raj, who joined the protesters, expressed dissatisfaction with the government's firm stance on the issue. Raj had raised this issue in the Legislative Assembly, yet the chief minister remained unchanged in his position. The protesters claimed the tax imposed needless distress on taxi drivers, vehicle owners, and the general public of both states.

The state government had previously hiked the entry tax on small vehicles from Rs 70 to Rs 170, which later was partially rolled back to Rs 100. Despite this adjustment, protesters demand further reduction. The stir in Bilaspur persists with a vow from protesters to continue their agitation until the entry tax is further reconsidered.