MARGAO, March 11 -- Team Herald

With The Margao Municipal Council (MMC) has come under intense scrutiny following its decision to significantly increase taxes and fees. While Chairperson of the BJP-led council Damodar Shirodkar defended the hikes as necessary to strengthen its finances, a recent audit report by the Directorate of Accounts for the 2023-24 financial year has revealed a troubling pattern of revenue leakages and financial mismanagement, raising questions about the council's ability to address its fiscal challenges effectively.

The audit report, submitted to the MMC Chief Officer, paints a grim picture of the council's revenue position, highlighting uncollected taxes, mounting arrears, and systemic failures in revenue collec...