CHANDIGARH, 13.04.26-The Chandigarh Business Council (CBC) has strongly welcomed the recent order issued by the Municipal Corporation Chandigarh, calling it a “big relief” and a “significant achievement” for the business community.

The recent order removes the requirement of verifying property tax receipts prior to the issuance or renewal of Fire Safety Certificates (FSC). This decision comes in compliance with directions linked to proceedings before the National Company Law Tribunal and marks a major procedural reform.

Welcoming the move, CBC President Ajay Gupta stated that the decision will resolve long-pending issues faced by businesses whose Fire Safety Certificates were withheld due to property tax arrears, despite compliance with fire safety norms.

The CBC team, including Immediate Past President Chander Verma and Vice President Avi Bhasin, played an active role in representing the concerns of the business community regarding fire safety certification procedures.

The Council also acknowledged the support extended by Mayor Saurabh Joshi.

Key Highlights of the Order:

  • The requirement for verification of property tax has been removed from the SOP dated 13.09.2019.
  • All pending or withheld Fire Safety Certificate cases due to property tax arrears will now be processed, subject to compliance with applicable fire safety rules and norms.
  • Station Fire Officers have been directed not to withhold FSC issuance or renewal solely on the basis of pending property tax.
  • Strict adherence to fire safety procedures and SOP guidelines remains mandatory.
  • The Assistant Collector (Tax), Municipal Corporation Chandigarh, has been directed to expedite recovery of property tax arrears separately and take action against defaulters as per rules.

The Chandigarh Business Council reiterated that this reform will improve ease of doing business while ensuring that fire safety compliance remains uncompromised.

The Council expressed optimism that such balanced and pragmatic decisions will further strengthen trust and cooperation between the administration and the business community.