Nihangs’ ‘Khalsa Tax’ protest raises legal questions as Himachal entry tax row escalates
Shimla/Chandigarh, June 4
Shimla/Chandigarh, June 4
The ongoing dispute over Himachal Pradesh’s entry tax on out-of-state vehicles took a fresh turn on Wednesday after reports emerged that members of a Nihang organisation collected a symbolic “Khalsa Tax” from Himachal-registered vehicles entering Punjab near Kiratpur Sahib in protest against the levy imposed by the hill state.
According to multiple media reports, members of Tarna Dal stopped vehicles on the Kiratpur Sahib-Manali highway and sought contributions from motorists, describing the exercise as a protest against Himachal Pradesh’s entry tax policy. Some reports claimed the collection continued for about an hour, while others said the group announced plans for further agitation if the issue remained unresolved.
However, neither the Punjab Government nor the Himachal Pradesh Government had, till the filing of this report, issued any official statement confirming the legality, scale or nature of the reported collection drive. No official notification authorising such a levy has been reported.
The development comes against the backdrop of months of protests by transporters, traders, farmer organisations and Nihang groups against Himachal Pradesh’s entry tax regime. Protest groups have repeatedly demanded withdrawal of the levy and have earlier threatened reciprocal taxation on Himachal vehicles entering Punjab.
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Legal experts point out that taxation powers ordinarily rest with governments and authorities specifically empowered by law. Any collection of money from motorists on public roads by private groups could raise questions relating to legality, especially if motorists feel compelled to pay or if traffic movement is obstructed.
The exact legal implications would depend on the facts of each case and the response of local law enforcement authorities.
The reported collection has also renewed concerns among commuters and tourists travelling between Punjab and Himachal Pradesh. Earlier this week, protest groups had blocked traffic at several border points connecting the two states, causing inconvenience to travellers and transport operators.
So far, there has been no public announcement from either state government regarding specific action against the reported “Khalsa Tax” collection. Nor have authorities announced any joint mechanism to prevent harassment of motorists caught in the crossfire of the inter-state tax dispute.
With the standoff showing no signs of easing, pressure is likely to mount on both Punjab and Himachal Pradesh governments to find a negotiated solution before the agitation further impacts tourism, trade and daily commuters moving across the border.
About the Author
The HimachalScape Bureau comprises seasoned journalists from Himachal Pradesh with over 25 years of experience in leading media conglomerates such as The Times of India and United News of India. Known for their in-depth regional insights, the team brings credible, research-driven, and balanced reportage on Himachal’s socio-political and developmental landscape.
