Maral (tax)

Maral or Marala (death duty) is an unpopular tax system which was practiced in Sri Lanka.[1] The tax was applied on property after the death of person, who had the rights on property. Two-third of property could own by kinsmen or heirs upon owner’s death and one-third could levy by the state. If there were no kinsmen, the entire property could levy by the state.[2] Similar practice was practiced in India too.[3] However, Christians were exception to the tax during Portuguese rule[4] and Maral tax collector was appointed to collect the tax.

However, women in Kingdom of Kandy were exempt from this tax. During the British rule in Sri Lanka, such tax system was removed for the welfare of the people.[5] Even though, Sri Vikrama Rajasinha revived maral tax during his reign.[6]

References
  1. "Unsung patriot". Sunday Observer (Sri Lanka). Retrieved 10 May 2014.
  2. Weeraratna, Senaka. "Sri Lanka's Claims for Reparations from Portugal". Global Politician. Archived from the original on 20 October 2013. Retrieved 10 May 2014.
  3. Codrington, H. W. (1994). Short History of Ceylon. Asian Educational Services.
  4. "Portuguese influence in Sri Lanka". Daily News (Sri Lanka). Retrieved 10 May 2014.
  5. "Tax System in Ancient Sri Lanka". Department of Inland Revenue, Sri Lanka. Retrieved 10 May 2014.
  6. Mendis, G.C. (2005). Ceylon Under the British. Asian Educational Services.
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