UNAIR NEWS The proposal to seize vehicles with an expired Vehicle Registration Certificate (STNK) for over two years, set to take effect in April 2025, has sparked public concern. While law enforcement authorities have clarified that traffic violation regulations remain unchanged, discussions on social media have fueled controversy. Many citizens, particularly those from lower-income groups, fear that this policy will disproportionately burden those already struggling to pay their vehicle taxes.
Regulatory tensions
A leading sociologist and Dean of the Faculty of Social and Political Sciences (FISIP) (UNAIR), Prof. Dr. Bagong Suyanto, Drs., M.Si, argues that the issue must be examined through the lens of social justice. 淭he obligation to pay taxes applies universally攅very citizen is required to fulfill their tax responsibilities. However, for those facing financial hardship, discretion should be applied, he explained.
According to Prof. Suyanto, the core issue is not just lower-income individuals defaulting on their taxes but the loopholes that allow affluent groups to manipulate the system and evade tax obligations. 淪candals within the government bureaucracy regarding tax compliance prove that this issue demands greater consistency and enforcement, he stressed.
Who will be most affected?
The working-class population, already burdened by economic challenges, is at risk of being disproportionately impacted by this regulation. Many depend on their vehicles for daily livelihoods, and if the policy is enforced without financial relief mechanisms, they could face devastating consequences.
Prof. Suyanto emphasized the need for political elites to consider tax amnesty programs, especially given current economic difficulties. Without flexible policies, the proposed regulation could widen socio-economic disparities, further marginalizing vulnerable communities.
Potential systemic flaws
Regarding the implementation of the Electronic Traffic Law Enforcement (ETLE) system, Prof. Suyanto pointed out that its automated nature lacks the ability to exercise discretion. 淓TLE does not allow for case-by-case consideration, he noted. As a result, individuals may be penalized without any assessment of their financial circumstances or the reasons behind late tax payments.
Although law enforcement officials have reassured the public that existing traffic violation policies remain unchanged, the anxiety surrounding this issue highlights deficiencies in policy dissemination and public awareness.
On one hand, the government aims to increase tax compliance. However, without a structured relief mechanism for lower-income individuals, the regulation risks exacerbating social inequality. 淎 fair system should offer installment plans or tax relief options for those in financial distress while ensuring strict oversight of large corporations to prevent tax evasion. If balance is not maintained, this policy could deepen the social divide, Prof. Suyanto concluded.
Author:
Editor: Ragil Kukuh Imanto
