Day later, Sena finds strength to oppose hike in stamp duty

Mumbai: The Shiv Sena on Wednesday sent a letter to Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis opposing the State Cabinet decision to increase the stamp duty on gift deeds between blood relations to 3% of the ready reckoner rates.

Transport Minister Divakar Raote, the sole Sena minister who was present in the meeting on Tuesday when the decision was taken, along with Environment Minister Ramdas Kadam, has sent a letter to Mr. Fadnavis. Mr. Raote is said to have opposed the decision, but could not push his point.

Policy decision

“This is a policy decision and the BJP should have consulted us before going ahead. We too are part of the government and bringing in such policy decisions without taking us into confidence will not be tolerated,” said Mr. Kadam.

The Sena leader said increasing the stamp duty on gift deeds between blood relations is atrocious on the government’s part. “Why should charge be increased for transactions within the blood relations? The Sena will protest against the government if the decision is not reverted,” he said.

Increase in revenue

Former Revenue Minister Eknath Khadse had done away with the stamp duty on gift deeds, prior to which it was 2%. Later, the amount was kept at ₹200 and ₹500, depending on the nature of the land. Tuesday’s decision is likely to increase the revenue collection.