BBMP Likely to Stop Issuing B Khatas What This Means for Property Owners in Bengaluru

The Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) is considering a significant policy shift that could affect numerous property owners in Bengaluru. As per a recent report by Deccan Herald, BBMP is working on a proposal to discontinue the issuance of ‘B’ Khatas and instead collect betterment charges from these properties to issue ‘A’ Khatas.

Understanding ‘A’ and ‘B’ Khatas

In Bengaluru, property ownership is documented through Khata certificates. An ‘A’ Khata signifies that a property is fully compliant with all municipal regulations, including tax payments and building codes. Conversely, a ‘B’ Khata is issued to properties that have pending dues or have deviations from approved plans, making them ineligible for certain legal transactions and building approvals.

Implications of the Proposed Change

The BBMP’s move to phase out ‘B’ Khatas aims to streamline property records and ensure uniform compliance across the city. By collecting betterment charges—a fee for the development of civic amenities—the BBMP plans to regularize these properties, thereby converting them into ‘A’ Khata holders.

This change could have several implications:

• For Property Owners: Owners of ‘B’ Khata properties may need to pay the stipulated betterment charges to transition to an ‘A’ Khata, which could enhance the property’s market value and legal standing. 

• For Real Estate Transactions: A uniform ‘A’ Khata system could simplify property transactions, as buyers often prefer properties with clear titles and compliance.

• For Urban Planning: Regularizing properties contributes to better urban planning and infrastructure development, as it brings more properties under the formal regulatory framework.

Next Steps

Property owners should stay informed about the BBMP’s final decision and be prepared to comply with the new requirements. Consulting with legal experts or property consultants can provide guidance on the process of converting a ‘B’ Khata to an ‘A’ Khata and understanding the associated costs.