Taxation on self-declared property came into effect in 2005-06, and the rate of taxation can be revised - according to the region, the buildings and the area - once every three years. The CMC can thus issue a notification and send it to the government for approval. It is only after government approval is given that the rates can be revised.

Tax doubled

The taxpayers allege that CMC officials have raised the tax which is double the prescribed amount without following any legal procedures, or undertaking any developmental work. This has become very difficult for the citizens to bear, and the corporation should be directed to reduce the taxation rate, the residents have urged in the petition.

According to a survey, nearly 30 to 40 per cent of those who own property do not pay taxes, and if the officials collect taxes without any bias, then there is no necessity to raise taxes, say the petitioners. The voluntary disclosure of property scheme, which came into effect in 2005-06, should have been revised in 2008-09, and the CMC’s revision of the same a year ahead of schedule has come in for much flak.

Water becomes costly

The taxpayers also claim that the water tax has been raised to Rs 1080, from the existing Rs 540. They urged that if the tax had to be raised, then as per the government’s directions, every house should be fitted with a water meter, and all taxpayers be notified about the increase in water tax. They also said that the doubling of this tax - which did not follow legal procedures, and was effected only in some areas - was unfair. “The CMC should withdraw the increase in tax. Even if it is revised, then it should be increased only marginally next year,” they said.

A copy of the letter has been sent to advisor to governor S Krishnakumar, director of the Municipality Directorate and, the  deputy commissioner.