A High Court judge has ruled that there is no need to file property tax declaration forms until the determination of a lawsuit challenging the fiscal measure.
Justice Frank Seepersad, sitting in the San Fernando High Court, ruled after hearing arguments from both lawyers representing the Board of Inland Revenue and former government minister Devant Maharaj.
Maharaj filed an ex parte injunction before Seepersad in the San Fernando high court for leave to file for judicial review challenging the state's move to compel citizens to submit the property tax forms.
Maharaj through his attorneys led by Anand Ramlogan SC is contending that the property tax form and process are illegal, unconstitutional ultra vires, meaning beyond legal power or authority.
Two days ago finance minister Colm Imbert extended the May 22 deadline by two weeks after the rush to submit forms.
The parties return to court on May 31.
