MC Commissioner holds meeting to promote One-Time Settlement Policy–2025 in Phagwara

In a bid to boost citizen participation in the state government’s latest tax relief initiative, Dr Akshita Gupta, Commissioner of the Municipal Corporation Phagwara, convened a meeting with local property owners to discuss the benefits of the One-Time Settlement (OTS) Policy–2025 introduced by the Government of Punjab.

Addressing the gathering, Dr Gupta highlighted that the OTS Policy–2025 has been designed as a citizen-centric initiative aimed at offering a simplified and transparent mechanism for resolving long-pending property tax dues. She emphasised that the policy not only provides financial relief through waivers on penalties and interest but also aims to foster a culture of voluntary compliance, reduce legal disputes and ultimately enhance the financial health of municipal bodies.

Under the provisions of the policy, property owners who clear their outstanding dues by the deadline of August 31, 2025, will be eligible for significant waivers on accumulated penalties and interest. The Commissioner further informed that the payment process under the scheme has been made easy and accessible to ensure hassle-free compliance.

To accommodate the schedules of working individuals and ensure wider participation, the Municipal Corporation’s Property Tax Office will remain open on weekends—Saturday and Sunday—until the end of August. This move is intended to offer flexibility and convenience, allowing citizens to take advantage of the scheme without disrupting their weekday responsibilities.

Dr Gupta urged property owners to make timely use of the opportunity, stressing that the policy offers a fair and final resolution to long-standing arrears without the burden of legal complications. She also noted that increased compliance under the OTS Policy will contribute directly to improved urban infrastructure, civic services, and overall development of Phagwara.

The meeting concluded with an interactive session during which property owners welcomed the initiative and expressed appreciation for the Municipal Corporation’s transparent and proactive approach. The Commissioner reiterated the administration’s commitment to citizen welfare and encouraged all eligible individuals to come forward and regularize their dues before the deadline.