Pune: A private bank has recommended software upgrade through its corporate social responsibility (CSR) funds to manage the PMC property tax department's operations. The software upgrade will be carried out through a company recommended by the private bank.
However, this proposal has raised eyebrows as the company is 'unofficially' already gathering information about PMC's tax collection functioning.
Citizens play a crucial role in Pune's development by diligently paying property taxes, contributing significantly to the city's revenue. The Municipal Corporation's Property Tax Department, recognized for its efficiency, earned accolades from the Central Government last year.
However, recent developments suggest that the department's responsibilities may soon be transferred from municipal employees to a third-party organization, raising concerns about transparency and data security.
Although no official agreement has been signed, employees from the suggested company have already started working within the department, accessing confidential information. This has sparked questions about the integrity of the process.
The Property Tax Department is a vital revenue source for the Pune Municipal Corporation, with a tax collection target of ₹2,500 crores for the financial year 2024-25.
Approximately 1.4 million properties in Pune are managed through a computerized system established in 2008, with significant support from the Municipal Corporation's Information and Technology Department. The success of this model has led to visits from delegations of other municipal corporations across India, aiming to replicate Pune's system.
The recommended company, primarily involved in the energy sector, has raised concerns about its capability to handle information technology tasks.
While the system is being developed, no training will be provided to Municipal Corporation employees. The company will oversee tax assessment, maintenance, and collection tasks, including changes in tax structure, penalty imposition, and property name changes.
Although no formal agreement exists, the process has been in motion for three to four months, with the private company already integrating with the Municipal Corporation's operations.
The bank has committed ₹8 crores through its CSR initiative for this project, ensuring no costs for the Municipal Corporation. The Additional Commissioner, Prithviraj B.P., has assured that there will be no malpractice during this transition.
