Pune: Residents of Wagholi, led by the organization ‘Team WACO’ (Wagholi Against Corruption Organization), have filed a petition in the Mumbai High Court challenging the Pune Municipal Corporation's (PMC) property tax collection in the area.
The petition, initiated by the group’s president, Anil Kumar Mishra, seeks to halt the tax collection until the PMC provides basic infrastructure, including proper roads, water supply, and drainage.
Wagholi, a rapidly growing suburb of Pune, was brought under the jurisdiction of the PMC some time ago.
However, since its inclusion, residents have continuously struggled with the lack of essential services. Over the years, various protests and demonstrations have been organized by 'Team WACO' to demand improvements in the area’s infrastructure.
According to the organization, despite the absence of these necessary facilities, the PMC has been sending property tax notices to the residents, demanding payment without fulfilling its responsibilities.
The petition, filed by Mishra, highlights the fact that residents should not be required to pay property taxes when they are being deprived of basic services.
'Team WACO' has coined the slogan "No Road, No Water, No Drainage, No Property Tax" to underscore their stance. Mishra stated that while the group has engaged in peaceful protests, they are now seeking justice through legal channels.
According to the petition, residents of Wagholi continue to suffer from poor infrastructure. Roads are in a dilapidated state, water supply is inconsistent, and the area lacks an adequate drainage system.
Yet, the PMC persists in sending tax notices, which Mishra describes as unjustified given the lack of basic amenities.
The legal plea urges the court to direct the PMC to cease all property tax collection in Wagholi until these essential services are provided. The petition also stresses the constitutional right of citizens to basic infrastructure and calls for an immediate resolution to the issue.
