For property owners who have yet to remit their property tax, positive news appears on the horizon. The municipal administration is considering prolonging the 5% reduction on property tax payments until the close of June, providing additional relief. This potential extension aims to alleviate concerns among taxpayers.
The Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) commissioner has formally communicated with the standing committee, advocating for a one-month extension of the tax reduction. A final decision regarding the allowance of delayed tax payments rests with the BBMP Council, and they are expected to deliberate on this matter within the next 48 hours.
Challenges arose as numerous taxpayers encountered difficulties in accurately calculating and submitting their property taxes. These complications stemmed, in part, from the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike's adjustments to the tax zones, resulting in the realignment of certain wards. Thousands of residents faced obstacles, with some experiencing website issues, and others awaiting greater clarity on the redrawn regional boundaries.
According to M Shivaraju, Chairman of the board, "We hope the council will extend the tax rebate till June 30," acknowledging the deferred property tax payments witnessed in the initial months, attributable to the uncertainties surrounding the novel tax zones.
In addition to Canara Bank, the BBMP has partnered with four additional banks, thereby enabling taxpayers to conveniently remit their property tax through a network of 400 branches citywide. Furthermore, a dedicated BBMP nodal officer will be stationed at each branch, to handle inquiries and provide assistance to taxpayers. He further stated, "We’re taking steps to facilitate speedy processing of challans and receipts," highlighting the commitment to optimizing these processes. This collaborative endeavor seeks to streamline the property tax payment experience, ensuring efficiency and convenience for all stakeholders involved.