Govt depts among major property tax defaulters in Mohali; MC begins sealing, auction drive

Among other defaulters are the Livestock Complex (Sector 68), PWD Construction Division-I (Phase 1, Sector 57), PWD Store, Printing and Stationery Department, Punjab, Sports Department (Shooting Range, Sector 56 A), Mining Department (Sector 73), DGR (Sector 74) and the State Crime Branch Police Station, Sector 59, with arrears dating back to 2013–14 and 2018–19 in several cases.

Against this backdrop, the MC has launched a stringent enforcement drive against chronic property tax defaulters, covering both government and private commercial and industrial properties. According to a press note, sealing notices have been issued under Section 138-C of the Punjab Municipal Corporation Act, 1976, and in certain cases, a final three-day grace period has been granted to clear all outstanding dues.
Officials warned that “failure to deposit property tax within the stipulated time will lead to immediate sealing of the premises without any further notice”. The corporation clarified that once sealed, the owner or occupier will be personally responsible for any loss or damage to goods, stock or machinery lying inside.

The MC stated that it is legally empowered to recover dues through public auction of sealed properties, including the outstanding tax, penalty of up to 20 per cent, and interest at 18 per cent per annum from April 1, 2014, till recovery.
The ongoing action covers prominent industrial and commercial units across various sectors and phases of SAS Nagar (Mohali). All defaulters have been asked to “immediately deposit pending property tax along with applicable penalty and interest” at the Municipal Bhawan, Sector 68, or through online modes such as the M-Seva App.

Appealing to all departments and citizens, the MC said timely payment of property tax is crucial for maintaining and improving civic infrastructure, including roads, sanitation, street lighting and public amenities. Taxpayers seeking clarification have been advised to contact the Property Tax Branch during office hours.