BJP Advocates Wing Urges CM Vijay to Introduce Digital Payments for Local Taxes

The Tamil Nadu BJP advocates wing has appealed to Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay to introduce digital payment systems for property taxes, birth and death certificates, and other administrative fees across local bodies, including corporations, municipalities, and town panchayats.

In a formal memorandum submitted to the Chief Minister, the secretary of the BJP’s state advocates wing, Mariappan, highlighted the persistent difficulties faced by the public when dealing with civic administrations. The representation specifically pointed out the situation in the Tiruchirappalli Corporation, where authorities reportedly continue to mandate cash payments for various civic services.

According to the memorandum, officials in the Tiruchirappalli Corporation have shown hesitation in implementing the Union government’s guidelines and instructions regarding digital transactions. Despite nationwide directives encouraging payments through the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) and other digital platforms, local body authorities continue to demand physical cash for essential public requirements.

Mariappan stated that this ongoing practice has created significant hurdles for ordinary citizens, who are severely affected when trying to pay property taxes or apply for necessary documentation such as birth and death certificates.

The memorandum called on the Chief Minister to take immediate action by directing officials of the Tiruchirappalli Corporation to facilitate and accept digital payment methods. The advocates wing emphasized that enabling UPI and online payment channels would ensure greater simplicity for residents, bring transparency to civic administration, and uphold a standard of zero corruption across municipal operations.