Pune Civic Body Takes Action, Seals 400 Buildings for Unpaid Property Taxes

Around 400 buildings are sealed due to unpaid property taxes when the Pune civic body took action! Civic Administration has to recover Rs 8,000 crores from the defaulters.

Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) decided to seal around 400 buildings since May this year as the citizens have not paid their property tax for many years.

Previously, owners and occupants of these properties got notices reminding pending payments. Despite multiple reminders, they failed to pay their taxes, leading to the sealing of their properties. The future plan, which may include auctioning these properties, will be decided later, said Ajit Deshmukh, head of PMC's property tax department.

PMC officials have revealed that the civic administration is trying to recover approximately Rs 8,000 crore from defaulters. This amount includes outstanding taxes from sources like industries, commercial complexes, IT parks, hospitals, and even taxes related to mobile towers.

A senior official from PMC mentioned that some tax defaulters had approached the court against the recovery notices. Due to these legal complications, the PMC is facing challenges, causing delays in the process.

Vivek Velankar of Sajag Nagrik Manch, a citizens group, said, "Many errant defaulters are showing reluctance to pay the tax. They are of the opinion that the PMC will give some tax benefit and discount in the penalty. Introduction of amnesty schemes frequently has given a wrong message to the taxpayers."

Citizens need to fulfil their tax obligations on time, as it contributes to the smooth functioning of the city's infrastructure and services. Non-payment of property tax can have consequences, such as property seizure. Property owners need to stay informed about their tax liabilities and ensure timely payment to avoid such situations.

The PMC will continue to recover the pending taxes and maintain financial stability for the city's growth.