Pune News: PMC Seals 150 Properties, But Large Defaulters Continue To Escape Action

The Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has sealed 150 properties as part of its ongoing tax recovery drive, targeting defaulters with significant dues. However, civic activists are raising concerns over the disparity in enforcement, as high-profile defaulters, owing much larger amounts, continue to avoid punitive measures.

Shocking Defaulter Data

PMC’s latest report reveals that the top property tax defaulters owe an astonishing Rs 334.1 crore. Among the largest offenders is the Sinhagad Technical Education Society (STES), which alone is responsible for Rs 345.43 crore in arrears across 128 properties in areas such as Kondhwa, Erandwane, and Warje. Despite the overwhelming dues, only Rs 8.97 crore has been recovered so far, prompting questions about PMC’s ability to recover from major tax evaders.

Government Properties Among Top Defaulters

Government-owned properties also feature heavily in the list of defaulters, with 438 such properties owing Rs 93.24 crore. Bureaucratic hurdles and multiple agencies involved in the process have hindered recovery efforts, leading to frustration among citizens and activists who believe influential entities are being shielded from harsh measures.

Recovery Drive Intensifies

In response to the growing number of defaulters, the PMC has ramped up its tax recovery efforts. Since December 2024, it has sealed 150 properties, disconnected water supply to 20 others, and even hired bands to play outside the premises of 825 defaulters to publicly shame them. These efforts, however, seem to be primarily focused on smaller defaulters, with large-scale evaders continuing operations unchecked.

Auction of Seized Properties

As part of the recovery plan, the PMC has started seizing properties for auction. While an e-auction of 42 properties last month failed to attract buyers, the civic body is now considering appointing an independent auctioneer to streamline the process and recover unpaid taxes effectively.

Selective Enforcement Raises Questions

The selective nature of PMC’s enforcement has drawn criticism from activists, who argue that major defaulters are receiving preferential treatment. Despite claims of legal action against large-scale offenders, many remain operational, fueling concerns about political influence or resource constraints preventing action.

Activists Demand Stronger Action

Civic activists have been vocal in calling for stricter measures against large defaulters. “The PMC should have acted sooner. Big defaulters have been overlooked for years. Now that the list of the top 100 defaulters is out, the focus must be on recovering these dues,” he stated. 

PMC officials maintain that legal proceedings are underway against major defaulters. Madhav Jagtap, Deputy Commissioner of the Taxation Department, assured that stringent legal measures, including contempt of court petitions, are being pursued against entities like STES.

The PMC faces increasing pressure to address the growing tax recovery issue, as citizens and activists demand greater transparency and action.