June 3 : Main opposition Nepali Congress has launched a tirade at the government for asking the business firms to pay taxes while they are being hit by the COVID-19 crisis.
On Tuesday, the government issued a notice asking them to clear income tax, value added tax, excise duty, telephone service fee etc. till June 7 or pay fines.
“The coronavirus lockdown has brought the entire national economy to a screeching halt with the closure of all industries, factories, banks, and educational institutes, among others. Given this gloomy context, it is highly impractical, irresponsible and imprudent on the part of the government to direct for tax payment,” states a press release issued by the NC adding,”Instead of introducing relief measures to the affected businesses, workers and farmers, those in power are seeking for taxes. This reflects their gross apathy towards the well-being of the Nepali citizens.”