In a decisive move, Municipal Commissioner Shubha B. has issued show cause notices to four officials from the revenue department of the Belagavi City Corporation in connection with an alleged property tax scam involving an industrial establishment in Udyambag and other properties. The notices were issued following instructions to resolve the matter within two days. However, given the gravity of the allegations, immediate action was taken.
The property tax scam, under scrutiny for the past two months, gained traction from the outset of the legislative session. The case involves alleged irregularities in tax assessments, including discrepancies in PID (Property Identification Number), e-Aasthi (digital asset records), and account changes. Reliable sources indicate that approximately 600 applications for e-Aasthi were left pending in the revenue officials’ login system. After uncovering this issue, the Commissioner ordered the concerned authorities to process the backlog and ensure transparency.
The controversy escalated when it became clear that the industrial establishment in Udyambag had been significantly undertaxed, raising questions about deliberate malpractice. Despite discussions in the standing committee, no firm action was initially taken. This lack of resolve prompted the Commissioner to take a firm stance, highlighting accountability within the department.
Adding to the pressure, the case has also reached Urban Development Minister Suresh, prompting the Commissioner to act proactively. The government’s directive against issuing PIDs to unauthorized constructions has reportedly reduced application numbers, but irregularities in tax collection remain a critical concern.
The issue has already led to fear among municipal staff, particularly after a recent notice related to house rent recovery for an educational institute in the city. Now, with the property tax scam under the spotlight, employees are apprehensive about potential consequences. Reports suggest that disciplinary action is pending against two additional employees linked to the scandal.
As the legislative session continues in Belagavi, the property tax scam is expected to draw further attention, with calls for stringent measures to restore public trust and ensure accountability in the municipal corporation’s revenue department.