Pune Residents Demand 25% Property Tax Rebate for Regular Payers
Pune residents are questioning the Pune Municipal Corporation’s (PMC) decision to offer a 75% penalty waiver to property tax defaulters while regular taxpayers receive no incentives. A citizens’ rights group is urging the Municipal Commissioner to grant a 25% rebate to those who consistently pay their taxes on time.
Property TaxPuneRebateDefaultersCivic AdministrationReal Estate PuneNov 17, 2025
Sudhir Kakasaheb Kulkarni of the Nagari Hakka Sanstha criticised the civic administration, stating that PMC welcomes defaulters with flowers and rangolis when they come to clear long-pending dues, yet the corporation does not extend even basic appreciation toward those who consistently contribute crores of rupees to civic revenue by paying their taxes on time.
The city—including the old limits and newly merged villages—has property tax arrears amounting to nearly ₹13,000 crore. Defaulters who fail to pay within the stipulated deadline are charged a two percent monthly penalty, causing the dues to accumulate significantly over the years. To recover the outstanding amount and generate funds for development works, PMC has launched an Amnesty Scheme from November 15 to January 15. Under the scheme, defaulters will receive a 75% waiver on the penalty amount. On the first day of the scheme, PMC officials welcomed defaulters with bouquets and decorative rangolis, resulting in a collection of ₹6.28 crore.
Kulkarni has strongly objected to PMC’s grand welcome for defaulters, questioning the rationale behind rolling out a red carpet for those who have not paid their dues for years. He demanded to know why the corporation is offering major benefits to defaulters while regular taxpayers receive no incentive. He reiterated that if defaulters are being offered a 75% waiver, regular taxpayers should at least be granted a 25% rebate as a gesture of respect and fairness.
This is the fourth time PMC has introduced an Amnesty Scheme to recover property tax arrears. However, Kulkarni pointed out that only a limited number of defaulters make use of these schemes, and many of the same individuals repeatedly avail the concessions and then become defaulters again. He demanded to know what action PMC intends to take against such habitual offenders. Kulkarni also questioned whether the upcoming municipal elections influenced the decision to launch the scheme.
Kulkarni has urged PMC to publish on its website the list of those who have defaulted on property tax as well as those who have previously benefited from the Amnesty Scheme. This, he said, will help citizens understand whether the same taxpayers repeatedly take advantage of penalty waivers. He insisted that while PMC is granting a 75% concession to defaulters, the administration must extend at least a 25% rebate to citizens who pay their taxes regularly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current property tax arrear amount in Pune?
The property tax arrear amount in Pune, including the old limits and newly merged villages, is nearly ₹13,000 crore.
What is the percentage of penalty waiver offered to defaulters under the Amnesty Scheme?
The PMC is offering a 75% penalty waiver to property tax defaulters under the Amnesty Scheme.
Why is the citizens’ rights organisation demanding a 25% rebate for regular taxpayers?
The organisation believes that regular taxpayers should receive a 25% rebate as a gesture of respect and fairness, especially since they consistently contribute to civic revenue.
How many times has the PMC introduced an Amnesty Scheme?
This is the fourth time the PMC has introduced an Amnesty Scheme to recover property tax arrears.
What action does the organisation suggest PMC should take against habitual defaulters?
The organisation suggests that PMC should publish the list of defaulters and those who have benefited from the Amnesty Scheme on its website to ensure transparency.
Related News Articles
Navi Mumbai Surges Ahead with 23% Sales Growth in 2024, Outpacing Greater Mumbai and Thane
A recent report from Anarock Property Consultants highlights a dramatic 23% increase in apartment sales in Navi Mumbai, while Greater Mumbai and Thane experienced declines in 2024. The study also notes a reduction in new supply across the regions, particu
Bhutani Group Collaborates with ED in Alleged Money Laundering Investigation
Real estate firm Bhutani Infra has announced its cooperation with the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in an ongoing investigation into alleged money laundering activities.
Turning ₹20 Lakh into ₹1 Crore: Strategic Investments in Hyderabad Real Estate
Discover how strategic investments in under-construction flats in Hyderabad can yield massive returns, turning ₹20 lakh into ₹1 crore. Learn the secrets of savvy real estate investors.