Goemkarponn desk
Aam Aadmi Party has criticised the BJP Govt for increasing the registration fee for purchase of properties priced below 75 lakhs. Stating that this is the exact price segment that is affordable for most Goans looking to invest in their first home or purchase small commercial premises for their business, State Convenor Rahul Mhambre said the BJP is actively trying to discourage Goans from being home-owners.
“The industry body CREDAI has openly stated that Govt corruption adds up to 8% to real estate costs. Every permission and sanction requires the payment of bribes even if a project is completely in accordance with the law. Sand and stone extraction is laden with illegalities and corruption. CM Sawant will not reduce this corruption cost because his party’s and his MLAs’ greed has to be satisfied, but he won’t think twice before adding more burden on ordinary Goans”, Mhambre suggested.
Stating that stamp duty and registration rates are usually decided at the time of Budget, Mhambre said the timing of this decision is questionable.
“In the recent budget, Govt had actually promised to reduce infrastructure taxes to stimulate the real estate sector. But this sudden decision to increase registration fees is a U-turn. Law Minister Cabral and CM Sawant are not aware of market dynamics. Increase in taxes does not always mean increase in revenue, and can actually be counter-productive in sectors like real estate”, Mhambre said.
Mhambre informed that AAP Govt in Delhi had recently reduced the circle rates for property registration, and neighbouring Maharashtra Govt had reduced registration fees, in order to stimulate demand in real estate.
“We heard many announcements by the CM regarding covid-related compensation and financial reliefs, but not a single Goan has received a single rupee yet. But Sawant has already moved to take more money from Goans in the form of increased taxes”, Mhambre charged.
