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BMC's New Theatre Tax Rates Await Government Approval
23 Sep
Summary
- BMC's theatre tax increase proposal needs state approval.
- Existing tax rates remain in effect until government notification.
- Proposed rates could significantly raise multiplex show taxes.
The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) is awaiting state government approval for its proposed increase in theatre taxes for entertainment venues. Civic officials confirmed that the existing tax rates, unchanged since 2014-15, will remain in effect until the Urban Development (UD) Department sanctions and notifies the revised rates.
The proposed revisions, currently under review by the UD department, could see a significant hike in taxes for multiplex cinemas. The plan suggests raising the tax per show for air-conditioned cinemas to Rs 400 from the current Rs 60. Additionally, single-screen AC cinemas might face a Rs 200 per show tax, non-AC cinemas Rs 90, and drama/jalsa events Rs 100.
BMC officials noted that the revised rates would only become effective from the date specified in the state government's Gazette notification. Meanwhile, the BMC also proposes to continue the exemption from theatre tax for Marathi and Gujarati films and plays, as well as maintain the 6% concession for advance monthly tax payments.
Under the current rates, AC cinemas are taxed Rs 60 per show, non-AC cinemas Rs 45, and drama events Rs 25. Circuses and funfairs are taxed Rs 50 daily. The proposal requires approval from the Law Committee, Standing Committee, and the Municipal Corporation.
