Karnataka CM Sets February 10 Deadline for Property Registration Overhaul

Bengaluru - Chief Minister of Karnataka has directed key departments to complete the process of creating property accounts statewide by February 10, 2025. The move is aimed at eliminating corruption, curbing fraud, and streamlining the property registration system across urban and rural areas.

Focus on Accountability and Transparency

During a high-level meeting, the CM emphasized the urgent need to address public grievances caused by delays and corruption in property registration processes. He instructed the Revenue Department, BBMP (Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike), and Panchayat offices to work in coordination to ensure seamless implementation. “The persistent issues of fraud, such as multiple sales of the same property and fake documentation, must end immediately. Strict compliance with digitized processes is essential to restore public trust,” the CM stated.

Major Announcements from the Meeting

Streamlined Registration: Only properties with verified accounts in local body databases will be eligible for registration.

Database Integration: BBMP and other local bodies must digitize property records to prevent fraudulent activities. A one-time resolution for unauthorized layouts in BBMP areas will be tabled in the next cabinet meeting.

Comprehensive Audit: BBMP has 23 lakh properties, but over 15 lakh lack property accounts, resulting in significant tax revenue losses.Across Karnataka, an estimated 1.2 crore properties remain unregistered, causing a severe dent in the state’s financial resources.

Action Plan for Local Bodies - Local authorities are instructed to launch a property digitization drive, focusing on rural and urban areas: Gram Panchayats, where 96 lakh properties remain unaccounted for, will simplify account creation. Currently, only 44 lakh properties are properly registered.Urban bodies must ensure that property registrations are based solely on verified digital records.

Tackling Fraud and Corruption

The CM issued stern warnings against officials found complicit in fraudulent property registrations and mandated an immediate halt to illegal layouts on revenue land. He also instructed departments to prevent the registration of assets without proper documentation.“Transparency and adherence to the law must be the cornerstone of all registration processes,” he reiterated.

Integration with Digital Platforms - The CM stressed the mandatory use of advanced digital systems such as Kaveri and e-Property software to monitor and streamline registrations effectively. The integration of these systems is expected to minimize errors and foster a transparent registration process.

Revenue Growth and Future Prospects - Despite challenges, Karnataka’s Revenue Department has collected ₹16,993 crore in revenue by December 2024, a 17% increase compared to the previous year. The reforms are expected to further boost state revenue and enhance administrative efficiency.

Key Highlights

• The BBMP will digitize all property accounts by February 10, allowing only verified accounts for registration.
• Unauthorized layouts will face strict action, with no new approvals on revenue land.
• Public roads within layouts will be reviewed and categorized to resolve disputes.

Impact on Citizens - These reforms aim to simplify property transactions, protect property owners from fraud, and ensure the government receives its due revenue. Citizens can expect a more efficient and transparent system, reinforcing Karnataka’s commitment to digital governance.