Pune: Property Tax Collection Remains Suspended in Merged Areas

Pune: Minister of the Urban Development Department, Madhuri Misal, stated on Tuesday that there has been no forceful tax collection from residents of areas merged into the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) limits. The process remains suspended, addressing concerns raised by Khadakwasla MLA Bhimrao Tapkir.

Tapkir highlighted the dissatisfaction among residents with the property tax structure proposed by the PMC. Many residents are unhappy because the proposed taxes are significantly higher than the charges levied by panchayats. Additionally, some residents have received incorrect and inflated property tax bills.

Misal confirmed that there has been no compulsion from the administration, and some property owners have paid taxes voluntarily. However, she acknowledged reports of inflated bills and stated that the issue is under consideration. The PMC has been directed to rework the tax structure and resubmit a proposal to the government.

The civic administration has been in favor of collecting property tax in the 23 merged areas, but locals have protested. Last year, the state government suspended tax collection in these areas, and no decision has been made to revive the collection. The PMC has since approached the government to allow the activity.

In a separate matter, Tapkir demanded the allocation of Rs 50 crore for disaster management works in Pune. Misal responded that a process to allocate Rs 200 crore for the same purpose is underway.

The suspension of property tax collection in the merged areas is a significant issue for both the residents and the PMC. While the government and the civic administration aim to ensure fair and transparent tax collection, they must also address the concerns of the residents to maintain a harmonious relationship and ensure the smooth functioning of the municipality.