Chandigarh, June 24 -- The Congress' local unit has condemned the "arbitrary and steep" hike in charges for converting leasehold properties into freehold by the administration. HS Lucky, president of the Chandigarh Pradesh Congress Committee, termed the decision as "anti-people". This would severely impact thousands of residents who have long been awaiting regularisation of their properties, he said.

"After the threefold hike in property tax, increased water charges and rising electricity bills, the administration has now issued a new draconian order. This move will break the backbone of middle-class families, senior citizens and small property owners," he said.

"This decision by the BJP-led administration is utterly insensitive and has...