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Major Hyderabad Studios Caught Dodging Trade Fees
21 Nov
Summary
- Two major film studios underpaid trade licence fees significantly.
- GHMC found declared areas were a fraction of actual operational spaces.
- One studio faces ₹11.52 lakh in back fees, another ₹2.73 lakh.
Two prominent film studios in Hyderabad, Annapurna Studios and Ramanaidu Studios, are facing investigation by the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) for alleged significant underreporting of their business areas. GHMC officials discovered that the declared plinth areas by both studios were drastically smaller than their actual operational spaces, resulting in substantial underpayments of mandated annual trade licence fees over several years.
Specific discrepancies were highlighted, with Annapurna Studios declaring 8,172 sq ft but assessed at 1,92,066 sq ft, leading to an alleged shortfall of ₹11.52 lakh in annual fees. Ramanaidu Studios declared 1,903 sq ft, with officials estimating the area at 68,276 sq ft, potentially owing ₹2.73 lakh annually. These underpayments represent a significant loss of revenue for the municipal corporation.
GHMC has issued notices to both studios demanding explanations for the discrepancies and payment of pending dues. The final decision on penalties and further action will depend on the studios' responses and compliance. Authorities are awaiting submissions from both entities in the coming days to determine the next course of action.
