Bhubaneswar: The Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation (BMC) has taken a significant step towards recovering outstanding dues by releasing the names of major holding tax defaulters. These defaulters owe a substantial amount, exceeding Rs 1 crore in dues. According to a release issued by BMC, the south-east and south-west zones have five individuals each who owe more than Rs 1 crore in dues. The north zone has six individuals with outstanding dues exceeding Rs 1 crore. Additionally, 15 defaulters owe between Rs 50 lakh and Rs 1 crore, with seven defaulters from the north zone. Notably, a prominent private university in the south-west zone is among the major defaulters. Besides, four government offices, five industries, three private educational institutions and a private medical college in the north zone are also on the list of notable defaulters. The BMC has urged all defaulters to take immediate action to avoid facing the consequences. The corporation has also assured that it will provide all necessary assistance to facilitate the smooth payment of dues. BMC Commissioner Rajesh Prabhakar Patil expressed concern over the non-payment of holding tax, stating that it puts an extra burden on other city residents. He also stressed the importance of timely tax payments for the smooth functioning of municipal services. To make payment more convenient, Patil encouraged residents to use online portals or visit their respective ward office counters to clear their dues promptly.
