Mumbai Entertainment Tax: In a major update for the residents of Mumbai, the movie and concert ticket prices could significantly increase as the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has reportedly proposed to increase the entertainment tax. If the proposal gets an approval from the state government's Urban Development Department, the prices could significantly increase in the coming months. However, the civic body has proposed to provide relief to the operators promoting the regional artists.
What BMC Has Proposed?
The BMC has proposed a massive 570 per cent hike in the entertainment tax rates for the entertainment centres, especially cinema halls in Mumbai, reported the Indian Express. While the additional cost will have to be paid by the exhibitors and managers for hosting shows, the burden is also expected to be shifted to the spectators. The proposal, if implemented, could have a serious effect those frequently watching these shows.
Massive Hike Proposed
As per the report, the civic body has proposed to increase the per-ticket entertainment tax for air-conditioned halls and multiplexes from Rs 60 to Rs 400. Apart from this, if implemented, the tax for non-AC cinema halls will increase from Rs 45 to Rs 200 per ticket, a jump of 400 per cent. Apart from this, the BMC has proposed to double the tax for performing arts events.
Regional Artists To Benefit
The authority has also reportedly proposed to impose a tax on the mini theatres and venues screening videos, a new category of tax. However, the regional artists are likely to get a massive relief if the proposal is approved, as the BMC has reportedly sought a 100 per cent tax waiver for cinema halls, multiplexes, and theatres screening Marathi and Gujarati films.
When Will It Be Implimented?
However, the changes are not likely to be implemented soon, as the BMC has reportedly proposed retaining the existing rates at least till 2028 until the new rates are sanctioned by the state government.