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Delhi's civic body detects 10 lakh property tax defaulters in four years

The Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) has recently undertaken a meticulous review of taxpayer records spanning the past four years, unveiling an alarming revelation. Nearly 10 lakh cases have surfaced where individuals have fallen short in fulfilling their tax obligations over the course of one or two years. Responding to this matter with proactive measures, the civic body has initiated direct communication with these tax defaulters, engaging them through messages to encourage a prompt response. An MCD official emphasized that a designated timeframe has been provided for them to respond, and if they fail to do so within this period, formal notices will be sent to these taxpayers.

This course of action is part of a broader strategy, wherein the civic body has recently implemented various initiatives aimed at addressing tax defaulters and fortifying the tax base. Despite the launch of several amnesty schemes in the past and the generous dispensation of tax rebates, certain individuals continue to engage in tax evasion or submit partial payments. Such practices are seen as inequitable, especially in light of the consistent adherence to financial obligations demonstrated by honest taxpayers. Consequently, the MCD has meticulously undertaken a comprehensive examination of records, encompassing both commercial and residential properties, in order to rectify this disparity.

It's noteworthy that in the fiscal year 2022–23, the total number of taxpayers exceeded the 13-lakh mark. However, in the current year, up until June 30th, only 9 lakh individuals had proactively submitted their advance taxes. Furthermore, the civic body has directed its attention towards long-term defaulters who have, for an extended period of time, neglected their tax payments. In the ongoing financial year, the MCD has undertaken decisive action by attaching 150 properties, spanning an array of categories including farmhouses, banquet halls, commercial establishments, guesthouses, and more. These actions have been taken due to the non-payment of property taxes amounting to Rs 20 crore.

In tandem with these measures, the MCD has embarked on an ambitious project to geotag all non-residential properties within its jurisdiction. An official provided insight, stating that their dedicated staff members are actively conducting thorough inspections of these units within targeted areas. To date, they have successfully geotagged around 4,000 units. The primary objective of this initiative is to ensure the comprehensive inclusion of all properties subject to taxation. This proactive endeavour is aligned with the MCD's overarching objective of guaranteeing comprehensive coverage of all taxable properties within its purview.

The MCD is actively executing the project by exercising the authority granted to it under the Delhi Municipal Corporation (DMC) Act. This authority encompasses mandatory inspections and related obligations. These deliberate and decisive actions epitomize the MCD's unwavering commitment to the principles of equitable taxation and its resolute determination to hold tax defaulters accountable for their financial responsibilities. This endeavour, ultimately, serves to establish a system of taxation that is truly just and fair for all taxpayers.

 

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