In a meeting of the Belagavi City Corporation held on Saturday, a decision was made to increase property tax by 3% for the current financial year.
Mayor Mangesh Pawar, who chaired the session, stated that the hike was based on a proposal from the state government recommending a 3 to 5% increase. “The Standing Committee on Taxation and Finance had initially passed a resolution for a 4% hike,” he noted.
However, several members urged caution. One member emphasized, “While the government has proposed a 3–5% hike, in the interest of the citizens, the increase should be limited to 3%. We need not be overly cautious of government directions when public welfare is at stake.”
Another corporator argued that the burden should not fall on the common man. “The Corporation owns a significant number of commercial properties. We should explore revenue generation from those rather than burdening the poor with increased taxes,” he suggested.
MLA Abhay Patil also voiced concern, recommending that the matter be further discussed and the public’s sentiment conveyed to the state government. “Efforts should be made to reduce the tax burden,” he added.
MLA Asif Sait proposed deferring the final decision to the next meeting for further discussion. Nonetheless, after an extensive debate, Mayor Pawar passed a resolution approving a 3% hike in property tax.