Delhi: As the revenue generation of the government was badly affected by the coronavirus lockdown, the Delhi government is exploring ways to fill its coffers, with more tax collection from the public. Just a day after offering relaxations in the lockdown in the city, the government has already pressed additional taxes on liquor. It has increased the Value Added Tax on petrol and diesel as well. According to an official figure for the current financial year, the government was expecting about 15 per cent of its total revenue generation from liquor sales. However, with the lockdown in force from more than 40 days since March, the government has a loss of about Rs 700 crore in the liquor sale.
From Tuesday, a 'Special Corona Fee' has been imposed by the government on the liquor sale — which will be 70 per cent of the MRP.
"The revenue generation is very low from our expectations. Only standalone shops are being opened in the city. Even if we talk only about the revenue generation from liquor, the shops were not the only source. The pubs and hotels selling liquors were still not opened," an official said. (IANS)