Deoghar: Allegations of harassment in the name of municipal tax collection have surfaced in Deoghar, where even the poorest street vendors claim they are being targeted by unauthorized collectors. The situation is drawing comparisons to a coercive “Jizya”-like system, with daily wage earners bearing the brunt.
A disturbing incident was reported on Monday near the Raj Narayan Library on Station Road. A vendor carrying a basket of lemons on his head was allegedly stopped by a group of men demanding ₹100 as “municipal tax.” Eyewitnesses said the vendor pleaded helplessly, but the men continued to pressure him.
The situation took a sudden turn when a journalist happened to pass by. According to locals, the alleged collectors fled immediately upon noticing media presence, raising suspicions about their legitimacy and exposing what many describe as unchecked extortion on the streets.
The incident has triggered public outrage, with residents questioning the functioning of the Deoghar Municipal Corporation. Citizens are now demanding strict measures to curb such harassment, including:
- A mandatory uniform (dress code) for all authorized tax collectors
- Compulsory display of official identity cards
Locals argue that without these safeguards, it is nearly impossible to distinguish between legitimate civic staff and imposters exploiting the poor.
Earlier, Mayor Ravi Kumar Raut had acknowledged similar complaints and even shared a video promising action against such practices. However, the latest incident suggests that enforcement on the ground remains weak.
Residents warn that the problem is escalating—after targeting auto and e-rickshaw drivers, such elements are now allegedly preying on the most vulnerable vendors. The incident has intensified calls for immediate administrative intervention to restore accountability and protect livelihoods.