The Hindu
Mangalore, Feb 3: Collect tax even if the property is illegal or unauthorised. This is what the task force on implementing recommendations of the State Third Finance Commission suggested to the authorities of the Mangalore City Corporation during a meeting here on Tuesday.
The suggestion was made by chairman of the task force A.G. Kodgi and member T. Thimme Gowda. They said that tax could be collected even from owners of unauthorised or illegal properties, according to Section 112 (C) of the Karnataka Municipal Corporations Act, 1976.
Mr. Kodgi had convened the meeting to review progress in the implementation of the recommendations of the commission.
V. Ponnuraj, Deputy Commissioner of Dakshina Kannada, differed with the commission’s suggestions. He said that such a move would encourage unauthorised constructions. There were other provisions in the Act, which related to demolition of illegal structures. All provisions in the Act should be perceived from a wider perspective to prevent unplanned growth of the city, he said.
Mr. Ponnuraj said that it was important to consider the repercussions on the growth of the city before taking such a step. Already, many roads had become narrow due to unplanned development activities.
However, Mr. Kodgi and Mr. Gowda stuck to their views. Mr. Gowda said that the civic authorities could still demolish illegal structures under relevant provisions of the Act. To augment revenue, the corporation could start collecting taxes from illegal structures, he said.
Earlier, some councillors alleged that the corporation had stopped giving door numbers to buildings despite the council of the civic body passing resolutions on the matter thrice and even Mayor giving a ruling in this regard.
M. Shankar Bhat, Mayor, said that the civic body had sought certain clarifications from the Government on the matter. The Government had given in-principle approval to the proposal. The corporation would take a decision on the matter shortly, he said.
Mahendra S. Kanti, member of the commission, was present.