Property Sealing Imminent for Tax Defaulters in Pune Cantonment
The Pune Cantonment Board (PCB) has announced its decision to seal properties belonging to tax defaulters who fail to remit their outstanding dues by March 5, 2021. According to a PCB official, notices have already been dispatched to over 240 individuals and businesses, the majority of whom are proprietors of commercial establishments such as hotels and retail stores.
Traders Cite Disputes and Pandemic Impact
Local traders and business owners have explained that legal disagreements between current owners and former tenants are a significant factor contributing to the delayed tax payments. Furthermore, the economic downturn caused by the pandemic last year has left some property owners struggling with substantial debts, amounting to crores of rupees in certain cases, making full payment challenging. Consequently, many have been forced to make only partial payments towards their tax obligations.
PCB's Revenue Collection Efforts
The PCB anticipates collecting approximately Rs 38 crore in property taxes from over 12,000 defaulters. While the board has managed to collect around Rs 18 crore thus far, its revenue streams remain limited, with property tax representing a crucial source of income. Although some property owners have made partial payments, the PCB hopes to recover the full amount owed.
CEO's Statement
PCB’s CEO, Amit Kumar, affirmed the board's position, stating: “We have already given sufficient time to defaulters to pay the due tax. We have issued notice to them and if they do not pay the dues by 5 March, then we will seal their properties under the Cantonment Act, 2006. Their property will remain sealed until we get the pending dues.”