GHMC Assigns DCs, ZCs to Enforce Property Tax Rules

HYDERABAD: The Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) has introduced provisions for citizens to undertake self-assessment of property tax and make changes in details furnished under the Property Tax Identification Number (PTIN). To ensure vigilance and enforcement, officials of specific cadres have been assigned the task. They have the authority to penalise and even seize property if false details are furnished to undervalue tax.

The same rules apply to the newly expanded GHMC, which now covers 2,503 square kilometres, comprising 12 zones and 30 circles.

Depending on the property size and tax amount, enforcement will be handled either by the GHMC deputy commissioner (DC) of the circle or the zonal commissioner (ZC). Properties with larger built-up areas will fall under the jurisdiction of ZCs, while smaller ones will be overseen by DCs.

For instance, in the case of self-assessment of new properties with a built-up area up to 10,000 sq. ft., the DC will be the competent authority to grant final approval. For properties exceeding 10,000 sq. ft., the ZC will be the approving authority. The same applies to revisions of property tax: Up to 10,000 sq. ft. requires DC approval, while anything above that must be cleared by the ZC.

If corrections are sought in property tax arrears, the DC will handle cases up to five years. For arrears beyond five years, the responsibility lies with the ZC.

However, if a PTIN has to be blocked, irrespective of property size, the authority rests solely with the ZC. The DC must verify and forward such cases to the ZC.

Similarly, activation of PTINs, cancellation of mutations, and granting of ex-servicemen tax exemptions as per norms can only be done by the ZC, with the DC limited to verification and forwarding.

In cases where establishments seek exemption of tax citing “place of worship,” only the GHMC commissioner has the authority to grant such exemptions.