Pune: Residents of 32 villages recently incorporated into the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) have warned of protests against the state government and civic authorities over a sharp increase in property tax. They allege that the promised tax relief has not been honored.
Previously, the chief minister and deputy chief minister had announced a stay on tax collection, assuring that any increase would be implemented gradually. However, in the absence of an official notification, the municipal corporation has now begun issuing revised tax bills for the 2025-26 financial year.
Villagers argue that they are being unfairly charged at the same tax rate as fully developed urban areas, resulting in a property tax amount nearly double what they paid under the gram panchayat system before the merger.
A citizens’ forum from Haveli Taluka has declared a protest on April 8, demanding a rollback of the tax hike. Residents express frustration over the civic body’s decision to issue tax bills without providing clarity on possible concessions. Many fear that the increased rates will place a significant financial strain on them.
The protesters are urging the state government to intervene and formally direct the PMC to revise the tax structure. If their concerns remain unaddressed, they plan to escalate their agitation in the coming days.
