Karnataka: Ramalinga Reddy disappointed with revision in tax collection norms

Transport & Muzrai Minister in the Government of Karnataka, Ramalinga Reddy is reportedly disappointed with the revision of norms for property tax. He has penned a letter in which he has characterised the revision as unscientific. He has mentioned that this is a rather unwelcome change from the perspective of the citizens. He requested for a reexamination of this change from the Deputy Chief Minister of Karnataka, DK Shivakumar. 

Properties that fall under the jurisdiction of the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) are being served notices for the collection of taxes from the year 2016-2017 at once as per reports. This accumulates to tax collection for a period of 7 years. This revision has apparently taken place without following any guidelines which are in place to implement such changes. 

As per the Karnataka Municipal Corporations Act of 1978 and the BBMP Act of 1978 such a collection covering a period of 7 years is outside the bounds of the law. Ramalinga Reddy also requested DK Shivakumar to hold a meeting with the officials concerned on this issue. The need to draft an appropriate guideline was highlighted. These guidelines would also need to keep the convenience of the public in mind.