Pune Municipal Corporation Takes Strict Action on Bounced Property Tax Cheques
The property tax department of the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) has issued a stern warning to property owners regarding the dishonour of tax payment cheques, citing a significant rise in such incidents. Civic officials have reported that more than 4,200 cases of cheque bounce have been documented in the current financial year, prompting the administration to escalate its response.
Recovery Efforts and Legal Proceedings Intensify
Through persistent follow-up measures, the PMC has successfully recovered dues from approximately 3,600 property owners who had initially defaulted. However, the civic body is now gearing up to initiate legal proceedings against the remaining 600 defaulters. These actions will be pursued under the provisions of the Negotiable Instruments Act, 1881, which specifically addresses offences related to cheque dishonour.
Ravi Pawar, the head of PMC's property tax department, emphasized that despite numerous reminders and appeals, several defaulters have continued to neglect their payment obligations. "Action is now being planned, and teams have been instructed to compile detailed information on all such cases," he stated, underscoring the administration's resolve to enforce compliance.
Deadline-Driven Collection Drive Ahead of Financial Year End
With only 10 days remaining until the conclusion of the 2025–26 financial year on March 31, the PMC has ramped up its efforts to recover pending property taxes. To date, the corporation has collected approximately Rs 2,882 crore in property tax revenue. Dedicated teams have been deployed across various areas of the city to accelerate collection processes and ensure maximum recovery before the deadline.
In a move to facilitate easier payments for residents, the civic administration has announced that all Citizen Facilitation Centres (CFCs) throughout Pune will operate without breaks until March 31. These centres will remain open on weekends and public holidays, providing extended access for property owners to clear their outstanding dues.
Encouraging Digital Payments for Enhanced Convenience
Officials have also highlighted the availability of authorised online platforms for property tax payments, urging citizens to utilise digital channels for greater convenience and efficiency. This initiative aims to streamline the payment process and reduce the incidence of cheque-related issues in the future.
The PMC's proactive measures reflect a broader strategy to bolster revenue collection and maintain financial discipline among property owners, ensuring that the municipality can continue to fund essential civic services and infrastructure projects effectively.
