BBMP Likely to End ‘B’ Khata Issuance for Unauthorized Properties, Says Commissioner
In a significant shift that could impact thousands of property owners in Bengaluru, the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) is likely to stop issuing ‘B’ khatas for properties that are not approved by the city’s planning authorities.
BBMP Chief Commissioner Tushar Giri Nath revealed that the civic body is working on a proposal to discontinue the ‘B’ khata system for unapproved layouts and instead introduce a betterment charge-based mechanism. This new system would allow certain unregulated properties to be regularized — provided they meet specific criteria set by the government.
Currently, a ‘B’ khata is issued to properties that do not have full legal status — such as those in unauthorized layouts or formed without official approval. Although these khatas allow property tax collection, they do not confer full ownership rights, nor can the properties be legally sold or mortgaged in many cases.
The BBMP’s move is aimed at ensuring greater transparency and accountability in land records and property transactions, and to reduce the scope for irregularities. The proposed changes are still under discussion and will require state government approval before implementation.
This reform could also signal a push toward strict compliance with urban planning norms, as Bengaluru continues to grapple with unplanned development and infrastructure stress.
Further details about the new system and timelines for phasing out ‘B’ khatas are expected in the coming weeks.
