Disparity in Tax Collection and Expenditure Raises Concerns Over Biased Culture in Madhesh Province

In a recent revelation, stark disparities in tax collection and expenditure between Madhesh Province and Kathmandu have sparked concerns of a biased culture in financial governance. According to the latest data, tax collection in Madhesh Province accounts for a mere 26.5 percent, while expenditures stand at a significantly low 7.5 percent. In contrast, Kathmandu boasts a tax collection rate of 50 percent, with expenditure closely following at 50.9 percent.

These glaring differences have raised eyebrows and triggered a debate on fair distribution of financial resources and development across Nepal's provinces. The statistics point to an alarming trend of bias against Madhesh Province, with an evident lack of proportionate allocation of tax revenue for local development and public services. Such disparities risk exacerbating regional inequalities and hindering the province's socio-economic progress.

Experts argue that this biased culture in tax collection and expenditure perpetuates an uneven playing field, preventing the Madhesh region from realizing its full potential. They emphasize the urgent need for a comprehensive review of fiscal policies and allocation mechanisms to address these imbalances and promote equitable development.

Local leaders and civil society organizations in Madhesh Province have voiced their concerns, calling for greater transparency and accountability in financial governance. They argue that the province's taxpayers deserve fair treatment and adequate investment in essential services such as infrastructure development, education, healthcare, and employment opportunities.

The provincial government, along with relevant stakeholders, is urged to initiate dialogue and take immediate steps to rectify this discriminatory practice. It is essential to establish a system that ensures tax revenues collected from Madhesh Province are proportionately allocated to address the region's specific needs and support its socio-economic growth.

Addressing the biased culture in tax collection and expenditure is a crucial step towards building a more inclusive and equitable nation, where every province receives its due share of resources for sustainable development. The government, in collaboration with local authorities and stakeholders, must work together to bridge the disparities and promote a fair and balanced approach to financial governance.

As discussions and debates intensify, the call for corrective measures grows louder. The nation will be keenly observing how the government responds to these concerns, hoping for a transformative shift in financial policies that ensures equal opportunities and progress for all provinces, including Madhesh.