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Ludhiana Municipal Corporation updates voter lists, slows property tax recovery

As Ludhiana anticipates municipal corporation elections, the civic body has shifted its attention towards updating the voter lists as per the latest ward delimitation. Amidst this, there's a noticeable slowdown in the property tax recovery drive, with employees opting for SMS reminders instead of traditional notices for due amounts. 
Approximately Rs 58 crore remains outstanding from house tax defaulters. Before the imposition of property tax, house tax was recovered from the commercial and industrial properties. The outstanding amount was increasing with each passing year. Then the LMC launched a one-time settlement of property tax as well as house tax, whereby the officials are pushing the staff to recover pending house tax amounts. In tandem, preparations are underway for a survey initiated under the 'Mera Ghar Mere Naam' scheme, with teams being formed accordingly.
MC officials highlight the city's potential to generate at least Rs 250 crore in property tax. However, challenges arise due to improper categorization of areas, leading to tax recovery at reduced rates. Currently structured into three zones – 1, 2, and 3, with tax rates of 6%, 4%, and 2%, respectively – officials recognize the need for a reassessment of these slabs. 
Officials say that certain properties that deserve to be under Zone 1 or 2 classification are placed in Zone 3, resulting in lower tax collection. Additionally, the uniform tax rate for industrial units irrespective of location raises concerns. In response, officials are contemplating a comprehensive reassessment of these tax slabs, and a dedicated committee has been set up for this purpose.
An air of urgency surrounds the compilation of voter lists, emphasizing a swift response to this civic obligation. Simultaneously, the commitment to the 'Mera Ghar Mere Naam' initiative underscores the civic body's multifaceted approach to community welfare. With this at hand, the focus on recovering pending house tax has been slightly retracted. But the efforts like one-time settlement and reassessment of tax slabs emerges as a pivotal step in improving financial management in the long term. This reflects a proactive stance towards rectifying inconsistencies and ensuring a fair and equitable taxation system.

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