Various citizens' groups in Pune have appealed to the state government and the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) to reintroduce a property tax discount scheme for self-occupied homes in civic areas. The special discount, which was initially introduced in 1970, offered a 40 percent reduction in property tax for self-occupied properties. However, since the discount was never notified as an act by any state government, it was declared illegal by auditors of the Union government and was scrapped in 2019.
Various citizens' groups in Pune have appealed to the state government and the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) to reintroduce a property tax discount scheme for self-occupied homes in civic areas. The special discount, which was initially introduced in 1970, offered a 40 percent reduction in property tax for self-occupied properties. However, since the discount was never notified as an act by any state government, it was declared illegal by auditors of the Union government and was scrapped in 2019.
After the discount was removed, the PMC began recovering additional tax as arrears. However, following opposition from the public, the drive was stopped. The PMC has written to the state government for clarification on the issue, and the decision on recovery of old tax would be made as per the state government's directives. However, citizens' groups are urging the authorities to reintroduce the discount and stop imposing retrospective taxes.
Several citizens have voiced their concerns with state authorities. They claim the lack of clarity on the issue is causing confusion and anxiety among diligent taxpayers who may have to pay additional retrospective taxes. The citizens' groups' concerns are understandable since they believe that the decision to scrap the tax discount is unfair and punitive. They are calling for greater clarity and transparency from the authorities regarding the issue, and a clear indication of whether the discount will be reinstated.
The citizens' groups' appeal highlights the need for governments to consider the implications of their decisions on taxpayers and to communicate their policies and directives clearly and transparently. This approach will help to build trust and confidence among taxpayers and ensure that they are not penalized for the mistakes of officials. It is essential to promote a culture of accountability and transparency in governance to build a healthy relationship between taxpayers and the authorities.
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