LUCKNOW, Feb. 18 -- Resentment is brewing among industrialists after the Lucknow Municipal Corporation (LMC) initiated proceedings to attach properties of 57 industrial units for allegedly failing to pay Rs.2.35 crore in pending property taxes. Acting under provisions of the Uttar Pradesh Municipal Corporation Act, 1959 (sections 507, 509 and 513), civic authorities have entered final stage of preparations to recover dues. Officials confirmed that notices had already been served on defaulters, but payments were not made, prompting stricter action. The drive has gathered pace following directions from municipal commissioner Gaurav Kumar, with a clear focus on boosting revenue collection before the end of financial year. If dues remain unpaid, the corporation plans to recover the amount through auction of both movable and immovable assets. This could include sealing bank accounts and seizing items. However, the LMC has offered a window for relief. Defaulters can avoid attachment by depositing the pending amount along with 1% of the dues and additional attachment charges in the municipal account. Industrialists have decided to meet the municipal commissioner after holding discussions with zonal officers on Tuesday. The move has triggered resentment among city entrepreneurs, who argue that several industrial units have received incorrect or inflated tax bills. Business representatives claim that while disputes over assessments remain unresolved, the threat of property seizure is creating unnecessary panic. Industrialists said even vacant premises where no activity is taking place have been treated as taxable by the authorities. They also pointed out that the controversy comes despite a state government decision in September 2024 to grant tax relief to small industries across Uttar Pradesh. Under the revised structure, small industrial units were allowed to pay property tax at residential rates - a move welcomed by micro and small entrepreneurs. The relaxation remains in effect until February 2026. However, officials clarified that recovery notices are being issued primarily for dues accumulated before the relief policy came into force. htc...