Pune Civic Body Unanimously Opposes 5% Property Tax Increase
Pune, 19th February 2026: In a rare show of unity across party lines, the general body of the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) on Thursday rejected a proposal to increase property tax by 5 per cent, with corporators criticising the civic administration for attempting to boost revenue without addressing service deficiencies.
The proposal had initially sought a 10% hike but was later scaled down to 5%, comprising a 3% rise in general tax and a 2% increase in road tax, following opposition. As the matter required a decision before February 20, it was tabled for discussion during the general body meeting.
Despite the BJP’s return to power in the civic body, corporators from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), Indian National Congress (Congress), and Shiv Sena collectively opposed the revised hike. A sub-resolution rejecting the increase was passed unanimously.
During deliberations, members alleged inefficiencies and irregularities in the functioning of the property tax department. Corporators claimed that citizens frequently face delays in the regularisation of tax assessments, with applications remaining pending for extended periods.
Some members raised concerns over alleged harassment and complaints of officials demanding money. They argued that instead of increasing taxes, the administration should streamline procedures, improve transparency, and clear pending proposals to enhance revenue collection organically.
The House also discussed issues faced by homebuyers, noting that unpaid dues by developers are often transferred to property owners after occupancy certificates are granted, leading to financial strain. Corporators further highlighted that several proposals linked to the 40 per cent property tax rebate scheme remain unresolved.
Among those who participated in the debate were Varsha Adhatapkir, Ajay Khedekar, Sachin Dodke, Archana Patil, Subhash Nanekar, Ajit Ghule, Arvind Shinde, Kaka Chavan, and Nilesh Nikam.
The general body also deliberated on property tax disputes in 32 villages recently merged into PMC limits. Differences between state government directives and the PMC’s taxation structure have reportedly led to confusion over assessment methods.
Leader of the House Ganesh Bidkar informed members that the administration would submit a comprehensive report to the Mayor, detailing government orders, legal provisions, and relevant data. The report will be circulated among corporators before convening a special meeting to take a final decision on the matter.
The proposal to hold a special session received unanimous approval.
The rejection of the tax hike is being viewed as a strong political signal from corporators that governance reforms and improved civic services must precede any additional financial burden on residents. The decision underscores growing pressure on the administration to enhance accountability and efficiency before seeking higher revenue through taxation.
