Goonda Tax in Guwahati

The collection of “goonda tax” from shopkeepers and vendors in Guwahati has become a growing menace. In March, the police had arrested five persons from the Beltola biweekly market for allegedly collecting illegal tax from the vendors. Media reports quoting police officials say there is an alleged illegal tax collection racket in Beltola bazaar operating for quite a long period. While the Guwahati Municipal Corporation (GMC) has its own rates and mechanism for collection of tax from the vendors of Beltola bazaar, which is held every Sunday and Thursday, and issuing receipts thereof, people going to the bazaar often see gangs collecting cash from the vendors without issuing any receipt whatsoever. Any vendor will admit paying such “goonda tax” under the very nose of the authorities. Unfortunately, the police do not seem to enjoy suo motu powers to swoop down on the “goonda” elements and expect the poor vendors – the majority of whom are poor, illiterate or semi-literate tribal women from Sonapur, Digaru, Khetri, Chandrapur, Mayong, Boko, Pillingkata, Rani, Chhaygaon, Hahim, Ukiam, Dudhnoi and other places – to lodge complaints. Media reports suggest that the “goonda” gangs operating in Beltola collect anywhere between Rs 100 to Rs 1,000 from the vendors, depending upon the quantity of items which they bring for sale. Similar gangs are allegedly also active in other areas like Fancybazar, Paltanbazar, Maligaon, Jalukbari, Ulubari and other areas, with media reports appearing occasionally when a complaint is lodged or an arrest made. It is a fact that most vendors cannot gather the courage to lodge complaints or approach the police against the “goonda” gangs which move around openly collecting the illegal tax. It is not known whether these Guwahati “goonda” gangs have political godfathers or underworld networks as are reported in Mumbai. But rumours are definitely heard about these “goonda” elements having good connections in certain powerful circles, because of which they can easily carry on their business of collecting illegal tax by issuing threats of violence or intimidation. The City Police under the dynamic leadership of the present commissioner can definitely step in by deploying policemen in civvies and arresting these “goonda” gangs. Likewise, the local MLAs can also definitely spare a few hours during bazaar day, be present there and play a proactive role by taking steps to empower and protect the vendors.