Bengaluru, Oct 25 (NationPress) Union Minister for Heavy Industries and Steel H.D. Kumaraswamy stated on Saturday that the transformation of B Khata into A Khata is a complete sham, claiming it serves as a mere extortion tactic orchestrated by the Congress-led administration to siphon funds from the public.

“No individual should part with their money for Khata conversion. When the JD(S)–BJP coalition returns to power in two years, we will facilitate it for you (the citizens) at a minimal fee. Do not be swayed by the deceptive temptations of this regime. This is a direct appeal to the people of Bengaluru,” he remarked.

He also criticized the Congress government regarding the initiative, labeling it the sixth promise related to the conversion of B Khata to A Khata.

He accused the Congress administration of committing “daylight robbery,” alleging that it exploits the populace to extract extortion funds.

“Under no circumstances should you pay even a single rupee. For no justification should you pursue Khata conversion in the forthcoming two years. Do not be misled by their assurances. It is our duty to defend you and safeguard your interests,” he asserted.

Kumaraswamy claimed that once their coalition government assumes power, they will guarantee a straightforward and hassle-free Khata conversion process, devoid of any financial strain on the public.

“Individuals are grappling with loan repayments for properties. Do not incur additional debts merely to obtain A Khata. Avoid falling into another financial trap. Citizens are already burdened with rising prices and tax pressures. Amidst this, the current administration has introduced the so-called A Khata scheme as a Diwali gift and their sixth promise,” he stated.

He also noted that the government has inundated the public with advertisements promoting this fraudulent initiative over the past 15 days.

“This is simply a way to deceive the citizens of the state. Who decreed that Khata conversion is unnecessary? The real question is, why impose exorbitant charges under this pretext?” he questioned.

Kumaraswamy pointed out that the residents of Bengaluru have been facing this dilemma since 1995, which also extends to rural regions.

“In 1997, legislation was enacted. Until 2003, the then Deve Gowda administration divided 60 municipal wards into 90, forming new town municipalities and city councils, as the outskirts of Bengaluru had not developed significantly at that time. In 1997, the rate was established at Rs 110 per sq. metre. Through Form 19, Khata was issued. For a 30x40 site, the rate totaled Rs 12,263, with Rs 1,500 collected for land conversion,” the Minister explained.

“In 2007, during my tenure as Chief Minister, a central government initiative for urban development was launched lasting five years. I prioritized the growth of Bengaluru and Mysuru. The BBMP was formed by merging 110 villages into 198 wards. A comprehensive development plan of Rs 25,000 crore was outlined for Bengaluru and Mysuru.

At that time, we set clear rates for Khata conversion: Rs 200 per sq. metre for up to 60 sq. m., Rs 400 for 60–120 sq. m., and Rs 600 for over 120 sq. m. Eventually, some individuals approached the courts. The court mandated that Khata be issued within 15 days. Since then, the government and BBMP have been collecting fees for Khata. Why should they impose charges again now?” he questioned.

The Union Minister emphasized that Bengaluru is a rapidly advancing city, and its development cannot be overlooked, adding that unregulated and unsafe constructions pose challenges for citizens.

“In this context, the government claims that Khata conversion is necessary due to such issues. Are B Khata properties collapsing during rainfall? Is that the rationale behind creating A Khata? Is this credible?” he questioned.

“For how long will you continue to exploit the populace in broad daylight? Your downfall has commenced. Whenever we advocate for the citizens, you accuse us of envy. There is no distinction between B Khata and A Khata. As if that wasn't sufficient, they are now introducing OC (Occupancy Certificate) and CC (Completion Certificate). They assert that 70 percent of individuals will benefit from OC exemptions,” Kumaraswamy alleged.