Coimbatore Corporation is facing renewed scrutiny over allegations of bribery and the “lavish lifestyle” of some bill collectors, following enforcement action in the central zone and complaints from residents and activists.
According to the report, a raid in the central zone led to the seizure of Rs 12,200 from an office assistant named Rajendran. In the aftermath, Commissioner Ravi Teja held discussions with bill collectors, assistant revenue officers and other officials, warning that properly submitted documents should not be kept pending beyond seven days and that seeking bribes from the public would invite strict action.
Despite the warning, a bill collector identified as Yamuna Devi was allegedly caught red-handed while taking Rs 40,000 as a bribe related to vacant land tax assessment. Bill collectors handle tasks such as new building assessment, vacant site assessment and tax collection.
The report also notes staffing pressure in the revenue wing. Coimbatore Corporation earlier had 65 bill collectors, but 54 workers were removed last week following a Supreme Court order, with more than half of them reportedly working as bill collectors. As a result, around 30 bill collectors now have to cover three wards each.
While some senior officials told the reporter that services can be accessed online and that file pendency has reduced because application dates are visible, activists disputed the narrative. They alleged that some bill collectors avoid promotions to remain in the same post for years and claimed files move only after “cuts” are paid, with the proceeds allegedly shared up the chain. Senior officials said a meeting of revenue officials would be convened soon to issue guidance and prevent misconduct by a few from tarnishing the department’s image.
