Panvel: In a significant development in the ongoing dispute over property taxation, residents of Kailas Heights Society in Sector 36, Kamothe comprising 80 households have unanimously decided not to pay the double property tax levied by the Panvel Municipal Corporation (PMC).
The decision was formalized during a meeting held in the society on Wednesday night at 9:00 PM, where members of the society gathered to address concerns over retrospective taxation and alleged double tax demands imposed by PMC, despite the properties being developed by CIDCO.
Colony Forum Vows Continued Support to Residents
The meeting was attended by former corporator and Colony Forum founder Lina Garad, who reportedly assured residents of continued support and urged them to remain united.
Legal Help Cited Under Section 129A to Oppose Demand
Advocate Samadhan Kashid, President of the Kamothe Forum, provided a detailed explanation of the legal proceedings initiated against the municipal body and clarified the implications of Section 129A, which, if applied, could exempt CIDCO property owners from the disputed tax.
Residents Refuse to Pay Retrospective Tax Until Court Verdict
A formal resolution was passed during the meeting, stating that no resident would pay the imposed tax until a final court judgment is delivered and Section 129A is enforced for CIDCO-developed housing societies.
Nearby Societies Join Protest in Solidarity
The protest also saw participation from representatives of nearby housing societies, many of whom expressed solidarity with Kailas Heights residents.
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Speaking on the occasion, Arun Maruti Jadhav, City Organizer of the Kamothe Colony Forum, said: “The 80 families of Kailas Heights have taken a firm stand. We are not against paying taxes, but we will not accept unlawful and retrospective demands. Until justice prevails, not a single rupee will be paid.”
