Difference between Fee and Tax - water and sewerage taxes levied...

Difference between Fee and Tax - water and sewerage taxes levied and collected - legislative competence of State Legislature to levy the tax under the provisions of Section 52(1)(a) - There can be no manner of doubt that the levy which is imposed under Section 52 is a tax on lands and buildings situated within the area of the Jal Sansthan for the purpose of imposing the tax. The tax is imposed on premises which fall within the territorial area of the Jal Sansthan. The expression ‘premises’ is defined to mean land and building. The tax is on lands and buildings. - The levy under Section 52 falls squarely under the ambit of Entry 49 of List II as it is in the nature of a tax and not a fee. Thus, the applicability of Entry 17, which is a non-taxing entry, does not arise in this case. - SC

---