Mangaluru: The Konaje gram panchayat members and villagers have alleged that Mangalore University reportedly failed to pay tax money to the local body, which has been pending for the past four years. According to them, the university owes Rs 70 lakh as of today.The issue was raised again during the panchayat meeting, where members and villagers expressed their anger and protested against the university’s failure to pay the outstanding amount.Mohammed Iqbal, a member of the gram panchayat, told TOI that the university has been asked to pay taxes only for its commercial and rent-earning properties. “We have been requesting the authorities to pay the amount, but without success. We have also invited university officials to talk and clear any doubts. None of them have attended the meetings. Besides, the university’s establishment, especially the women’s hostel, has been letting out untreated sewage water onto the road. It was brought to the attention of the concerned people, but no action has been taken,” he complained, adding that university officials are burying the issue under the carpet, stating that they are reeling under financial difficulties.During the meeting, other members also insisted that permission for further construction should not be granted to the university.Konaje GP president Geeta Damodar, informed that several notices have been issued for the last 1.5 years, but the university remains indifferent, stating they would not pay taxes. Villagers suggested that the gram panchayat should write to the university chancellor and the governor once again.Reacting to complaints and allegations, university vice-chancellor PL Dharma, maintained that the panchayat has levied taxes on all properties owned by the university instead of only commercial and rent-earning ones. “We have asked them to rectify it. Once it is done, the dues will be paid in two instalments.”
