Karnataka Government Approves Historic B-Khata to A-Khata Regularisation Policy for Bengaluru Properties

The Karnataka cabinet has announced its approval of a comprehensive policy to regularise B-Khata properties in Bengaluru, marking a significant milestone for thousands of property owners in the city. The policy will allow properties registered up to September 30, 2024, to be upgraded to A-Khata status, providing legal clarity and access to essential civic services.

Understanding the Difference Between B-Khata and A-Khata Properties

Officials explained that B-Khata refers to properties recorded by the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) that do not fully comply with urban planning or zoning regulations. These properties typically lack required approvals or occupancy certificates, creating legal uncertainties for owners.

In contrast, A-Khata designation indicates full legal and regulatory compliance, enabling seamless property transactions, bank financing opportunities, and complete access to municipal amenities. The distinction between these classifications has long been a source of concern for property owners seeking to build profitable real estate portfolios in the region.

Significant Benefits for Property Owners Across Bengaluru

Legal Recognition and Documentation

Property owners who successfully secure regularisation will receive proper certificates, enabling them to sell, mortgage, or renovate their properties without legal complications. This development addresses long-standing concerns about property legitimacy in affordable housing localities in Bangalore.

Enhanced Access to Municipal Services

The upgraded Khata status will entitle property owners to water connections, electricity supplies, sewer access, and streamlined building approval processes. These services have often been difficult to obtain for B-Khata property holders.

Increased Property Values and Market Appeal

With clear title documentation and banking eligibility, these properties are expected to attract more buyers and command better market prices. This change particularly benefits those looking at commercial real estate investment opportunities in Bangalore.

Application Process and Eligibility Criteria

The government specified that eligibility applies to all B-Khata properties within Greater Bengaluru limits that were issued on or before September 30, 2024. Applicants must meet specific criteria, including eight requirements for B-Khata regularisation and eleven for full A-Khata conversion.

Additionally, property owners with minor discrepancies can still secure legal protection under the revised regulations. The process will involve a nominal regularisation fee, approximately 5% of the guideline value, making it accessible to most property owners.

Broader Implications for Urban Development

This initiative represents the government's commitment to curbing unauthorised development and bringing irregular constructions under proper regulatory oversight. The policy aims to formalise nearly half a million properties, effectively freeing up land resources and supporting more structured urban planning initiatives.

Municipal authorities anticipate generating between ₹1,200-1,500 crore annually in additional tax revenue through this regularisation process. This revenue boost could significantly impact the city's infrastructure development and service delivery capabilities.

Future Outlook and Implementation Timeline

Property owners are advised to prepare for upcoming application windows and fee submission procedures. The BBMP expects a more streamlined process for land regularisation and enhanced infrastructure mapping capabilities following implementation.

This policy development comes at a time when Bengaluru's expansion plans face roadblocks due to land acquisition challenges, making this regularisation effort even more significant.

The initiative marks a crucial step toward legitimising Bengaluru's informal housing landscape, offering security and legitimacy for homeowners while helping the city transition toward more structured, legally compliant urban development. This policy change is expected to have far-reaching effects on the city's real estate market and urban planning strategies, particularly benefiting areas that have seen rapid but informal development.