South MCD approves property tax waiver in unauthorised colonies

The move, targeting a large section of people living in unauthorised colonies, comes ahead of the MCD elections scheduled for early 2022. There are 400 unauthorised colonies in South Delhi, with over 7 lakh residents. The BJP, which has been ruling the three corporations for three terms, faces a tough challenge from the AAP ahead of the polls. Unauthorised colonies were AAP’s stronghold in the Assembly polls.

The rate of property tax varies depending on the category and use of property. For instance, property tax for a four-floor house with two-bedrooms, kitchen, hall, and bathroom, built in 1,000 square feet, would be around Rs 2,000-Rs 3,000 a year.

Residents of unauthorised colonies across Delhi avoid paying property tax as they say that the corporation hardly provides services such as parks, community, or recreational centres, which they provide in regularised colonies. Officials said sanitation, schools, and health services are provided in unauthorised colonies. However, money is needed from these colonies to provide more services.

In the previous financial year, the South MCD collected around Rs 850 crore in property taxes.