Pune: PCMC Property Tax Hike Proposal Put on Hold After Strong Opposition

Pimpri Chinchwad, 5th May 2026: A proposal to revise the property tax assessment structure in Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) sparked a heated debate during the general body meeting on Tuesday. Corporators raised concerns over a potential tax hike amid inadequate civic amenities. The issue was eventually deferred for further study following strong opposition led by BJP corporator Rahul Kalate.

The proposal seeks to reduce the existing three-category classification of properties—A, B, and C—into two categories, A and B, for property tax calculation. The move, cleared by the standing committee on March 16, is expected to impact tax rates, particularly in rapidly developing and newly merged areas.

During the meeting, BJP corporators Babasaheb Tribhuvan and Yogita Nagargoje formally presented the proposal. However, Kalate strongly opposed its implementation, arguing that citizens should not be burdened with higher taxes when essential services like water supply and infrastructure remain inadequate.

“First provide basic amenities, then revise the tax structure,” Kalate asserted, demanding clarity from the administration and suggesting the appointment of an expert committee to review the proposed changes.

Several corporators across party lines supported the objection. BJP members Vikas Dolas, Uttam Kendale, and Nilesh Newale, along with NCP’s Vikas Sane and Shiv Sena’s Rajendra Taras, opposed the move, citing the risk of increased financial burden on residents.

Responding to the concerns, standing committee chairman Abhishek Barne defended the proposal, stating that the revised classification aims to bring balance and uniformity in tax assessment across the city.

BJP group leader Prashant Shitole then proposed deferring the matter until May 15 for further review. Mayor Ravi Landge accepted the suggestion, leading to the postponement of the decision.

Kalate further pointed out that areas such as Wakad, Tathawade, Punawale, Chikhali, and Charholi—recently included within municipal limits—could see a rise in property taxes for newly constructed residential and commercial units under the revised system. He reiterated that citizens should not face additional tax burdens without corresponding improvements in civic services and called for transparency in taxation of open spaces and other categories.

The Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) is a local governing body responsible for the administration and development of the Pimpri Chinchwad area in Maharashtra, India. It plays a crucial role in providing essential civic amenities and maintaining infrastructure for the residents of the region.