Expressing their displeasure regarding the Municipal Corporation’s property tax policies, citizens have raised serious questions concerning the administration’s attitude. Social activist R.K. Garg stated that, on one hand, the 20 percent tax rebate previously available to ordinary citizens has been abolished; on the other, an additional burden—comprising a penalty of up to 25 percent and interest of 12.5 percent—is being imposed on outstanding dues.
He alleged that pressure is being exerted regarding property regularization and documentation procedures, and warnings—such as the disconnection of water supply—are also being issued. This suggests that the administration’s objective has shifted from providing relief to citizens to instead taking punitive action against them. R.K. Garg pointed out that the most pressing question is why a lenient approach is adopted towards numerous government departments and offices—which themselves have been defaulting on property tax payments for years—while ordinary citizens who pay their taxes on time are subjected to notices, fines, and strict enforcement measures. He questioned whether the rules apply solely to the general public, while a separate system is in place for government institutions. He noted that, historically, changes to tax rebates were implemented in a phased manner; however, the relief has now been abruptly withdrawn, thereby increasing the financial burden on citizens. Opposing these alleged double standards and punitive policies, citizens have demanded that the administration adopt a fair, equitable, and sensitive approach.
Garg asserted that the administration’s primary focus should be on recovering pending dues from government departments and institutions. Only after accomplishing this should any consideration be given to imposing additional financial burdens on ordinary citizens. He emphasized that the public requires relief and support, not harassment and intimidation.
