The Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) has commenced a crackdown on unpaid property taxes by sealing properties with outstanding dues. This enforcement follows the One-Time Settlement (OTS) scheme, which allowed property owners to clear their debts by November 30, waiving compound interest and offering penalty rebates. On the first day of the drive, 115 properties were sealed, with the East zone having the highest number of defaulters. City officials stress the importance of tax compliance for funding public services and infrastructure. Property owners are urged to take action and utilise the OTS scheme before further enforcement measures are implemented.
The Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) has launched a significant initiative to address the growing issue of unpaid property taxes in the city. Following a six-month period for property owners to settle their dues under the One-Time Settlement (OTS) scheme, the BBMP has begun sealing properties with outstanding taxes. This initiative aims to enforce tax collection and encourage compliance among residents.
On October 29, the first day of this enforcement drive, BBMP officials sealed a total of 115 properties across all eight administrative zones of Bengaluru. The East zone accounted for the highest number, with 32 properties locked, while the West zone followed closely with 30 properties. Other zones also reported varying numbers of sealed properties, with RR Nagar locking 17, South sealing 13, Yelahanka eight, and Bommanahalli, Dasarahalli, and Mahadevapura each with five.
The OTS scheme, introduced in February, was designed to help property owners who have not paid their taxes. It offers significant relief by waiving 100% of compound interest and providing a 50% rebate on penalties for overdue payments. However, the deadline for the scheme is fast approaching, with November 30 marking the last opportunity for defaulters to take advantage of this offer. Despite the extended time for compliance, many property owners have remained inactive, leading the BBMP to take more drastic measures.
The situation is particularly concerning in the East zone, which alone has an average of Rs 127 crore in property tax arrears. According to zonal commissioner Snehal R, there are 2,418 revision cases with dues amounting to Rs 66 crore and an alarming 32,584 defaulters accounting for Rs 61.7 crore. The BBMP had previously issued notices to these defaulters, but the lack of response prompted the need for property sealing.
On the first day of the drive, BBMP officials reported that two property owners paid a total of Rs 17.4 lakh immediately when faced with the threat of sealing. This quick response highlights the urgency of addressing tax dues, as well as the effectiveness of enforcement actions. Commissioner Snehal emphasised that the BBMP is committed to conducting more drives in the future and is calling on property owners to settle their dues before further actions are taken.
City officials have stressed the importance of property taxes for local governance and infrastructure development. The collection of dues is essential for maintaining public services such as waste management, road maintenance, and other civic amenities. The BBMP hopes that by enforcing these measures, they can improve tax compliance and increase revenue for the city.
As the enforcement drive continues, property owners are encouraged to clear their outstanding dues and benefit from the OTS scheme. The BBMP's actions serve as a reminder of the responsibilities of property owners in contributing to the city's development and sustainability.
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