BENGALURU: Out of 140,000 e-khata applications submitted by flat owners in the city, approximately 120,000 were approved without objections, as their tax records and sale deeds were verified as accurate, based on data from the Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) obtained by TOI.
However, around 20,000 flats were identified with discrepancies, yet only 4,000 owners have lodged appeals to date.
Authorities stress the importance of not generalizing individual cases, highlighting that 85% of flat owners have adhered to the regulations. A senior revenue official remarked, “Some residents have acknowledged their mistakes and are ready to pay the adjusted amounts; we are uncertain as to why others are resisting now. Ultimately, they too will need to settle their dues for their errors.”
Several residents have opted for compliance. “We realized that we under-reported the car parking area, which is now taxed. We are prepared to pay for it. There is no use avoiding this; GBA is firm in its position and will collect the dues eventually. Why engage in conflict?” said Atul Kishore, a Bellandur resident.
Many residents share similar views, believing that compliance brings peace of mind. “Most residents in our apartment complex have already settled their dues. Delaying only complicates future property sales or khata transfers. It’s better to resolve it promptly,” stated Ramesh Gowda of Rajajinagar.
He continued, “The ARO informed me that since car parking is frequently not included in the sale deed, we are required to pay separately for it. Although I disagree with this interpretation, I prefer not to waste my time arguing with GBA officials. I have no interest in filing a petition or hiring a lawyer over such matters.”
Conversely, some residents are resistant to accepting the updated demands. Many feel they are being penalized without cause. “I have consistently paid the property tax according to the authorities’ directives for years. If there is a discrepancy now, it’s not my mistake. I will certainly contest this through the appeal process,” asserted Tulasi K Das, a retired school teacher from Koramangala.
Others fear that indiscriminately accepting revised notices sets a concerning precedent. “If 85% of owners have been cleared without issues, why should the rest of us be penalized for mistakes we didn’t make? The appeals process allows us a chance to explain our cases and receive a fair hearing,” argued Sandeep Kulkarni, a tech professional from Yelahanka.
Munish Moudgil, GBA’s special commissioner (revenue), stated that the authority is receptive to addressing legitimate concerns. “We will evaluate each appeal on an individual basis. If the charges are valid, they will remain. However, if they stem from our errors, we are willing to rectify them,” he assured.
Discover your new corporation on this portal
The division of BBMP into five new corporations has caused considerable confusion among residents. In response, the Greater Bengaluru Authority has launched a new portal to assist in clarifying these uncertainties.
The ‘Know Your Ward and New City Corporation’ portal offers information about the new corporations and the locations of zonal offices. Users can search by ward number (out of 198 wards) or by Google Maps location. To access the portal, visit: bbmp(dot)gov(dot)in and navigate to the KnowYourNewCorporation section.
