Shiv Sena-led BMC proposes tax breaks for Marathi medium schools

Eyeing the civic elections to be held on February 2012, the Shiv Sena-led Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has spearheaded its pro-Marathi agenda.

Standing committee chairman and Shiv Sena leader has proposed 50% concession on water bills and property tax rebate for Marathi medium schools in the city. Rahul Shewale has written a letter to the civic chief to introduce this provision.

“Parents are opting for English medium schools for their children under the myth that it has better growth prospects. It has led to huge percentage of students dropping out from Marathi medium schools,” he said.

It is worrisome how large number of Marathi medium schools is closing down every day. We ought to support them, he added.

There are 1,000 Marathi medium schools in the city. Of these, 424 schools receive grants from the state government, while over 650 make ends meet without any funds from the state. BMC runs 413 Marathi medium schools, where around one lakh students study.

“The concession in water bills and property tax will help them reduce their financial burden. It is necessary to take a policy decision to support them,” Shewale said.

This scheme, though, is being viewed sceptically. “It is a gimmick to maintain their stronghold in the city and to weaken Maharashtra Navnirman Sena. But the proposal too will not be implemented,” said an opposition leader, requesting anonymity.

Meanwhile, in September, the party had had demanded double increments for civic employees who are post graduates in Marathi. The civic body has over 1.5 lakh employees, of which only 20% are post graduates in Marathi.