Is the K'taka Government Really 'Extorting' Money from Citizens in the Khata Conversion Scheme?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
Union Minister H.D. Kumaraswamy alleges that the Karnataka government is exploiting Bengaluru residents by extorting money through the A-Khata conversion scheme, with claims of a Rs 15,000 crore scam disguised as a Diwali gift. This accusation raises significant concerns about the government's intentions and the impact on citizens.
Key Takeaways
- Kumaraswamy accuses the Karnataka government of financial exploitation.
- The A-Khata scheme is said to involve high fees for property conversion.
- The initiative aims to regularize 15 lakh properties in Bengaluru.
- Concerns have been raised about the transparency of the scheme.
- The government claims the scheme will improve property valuations.
Mandya (Karnataka), Oct 16 (NationPress) Union Minister for Heavy Industries and Steel H.D. Kumaraswamy stated on Thursday that the Congress-led government in Karnataka has reached into the pockets of Bengaluru residents under the pretense of offering a Diwali gift, alleging that it is extorting Rs 15,000 crore under the A-Khata scheme.
Speaking to journalists at Raitha Bhavan in Mandya after inaugurating a newly constructed modern auto stand at Sanjay Circle, he strongly criticized the government.
“When they announced a Diwali gift, people expected the government to provide substantial benefits. Given the extensive advertisements, I too had similar expectations. However, it has turned into a significant scam disguised as a Diwali initiative,” Kumaraswamy remarked.
“Instead of a Diwali gift, they are delivering a shock to the people of Bengaluru. How? An application fee of Rs 500 is required to upgrade from B-Khata to A-Khata. Through this fee, the government is collecting hundreds of crores. For a 30x40 site, residents are coerced into paying between Rs 4 to 8 lakh. Previously, Bengaluru citizens paid only Rs 10,000 to Rs 13,000. Now, they are obligated to pay lakhs. This A-Khata scheme is a revenue-generating racket amounting to Rs 15,000 crore,” he asserted.
“Is this what they refer to as improving people's lives through guarantees? They are imposing taxes on the populace merely to fulfill a so-called sixth guarantee. Since this government took office, it has been persistently exploiting the people. Their sole agenda is to generate revenue by any means necessary,” Kumaraswamy continued.
“This government lacks funds. That’s why it is raiding resources wherever possible. Forget about repairing potholes in Bengaluru; they are incapable of addressing potholes across the entire state,” the minister emphasized.
He added, “The Chief Minister in Hassan questioned what the JD(S)’s contribution was. A senior Congress leader visited Delhi to inquire about my health and mentioned that work continues with the Rs 500 crore grant from 2018. The CM, who discusses grants, should present evidence to the public—how much I allocated during my term and how much they have provided. They should show this to the citizens,” Kumaraswamy challenged.
While inaugurating the auto stand, constructed at a cost of Rs 35 lakh, he stated, “This facility was funded through the MP Local Area Development Fund of former Prime Minister H.D. Deve Gowda and my MPLADS fund. It is a modern and spacious facility that will benefit both auto drivers and passengers. There has been a long-standing demand for such a stand, and that demand has now been met. The construction was completed in a short timeframe,” he noted.
“In this city, auto services are crucial for public transport. However, drivers were enduring challenges in adverse weather. They requested a proper stand, and we acted promptly. Thanks to the grants from Deve Gowda and myself, this project was realized. I express my gratitude to Deve Gowda for his contribution,” Kumaraswamy added.
Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar announced a 100-day campaign starting November 1 to convert B-Khatas to A-Khatas within the Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA). He characterized this initiative as the sixth guarantee of the state government.
“The state government has made a landmark decision to convert B-Khatas to A-Khatas. This scheme will benefit 15 lakh property owners in Bengaluru. It is a groundbreaking initiative that will enhance the property market,” the Deputy Chief Minister stated after launching the online conversion system for B-Khata to A-Khata at Vidhana Soudha.
“Properties up to 2,000 square meters are included in the new scheme. CAD drawings and other documents must be issued for all properties converting to A-Khata. The campaign will run for 100 days starting November 1. Corporation officials will visit properties to offer conversion services if the owner registers online by paying a registration fee of Rs 500,” he explained.
The B-Khata designation indicates a property listed in the B register of the municipal authority that does not fully comply with regulations or lacks adequate documentation. Conversely, the A-Khata designation is fully legal and adheres to regulations. The conversion process aims to clarify legal ownership, enhance property valuation, and facilitate smoother real estate transactions. This scheme applies exclusively to individual plots.
Point of View
It is essential to present a balanced view of the accusations made by H.D. Kumaraswamy against the Karnataka government. While his claims of extortion and financial exploitation raise valid concerns, it is crucial to analyze the broader context of property regulation and governance in the state. Engaging in an informed debate about the A-Khata scheme can lead to necessary improvements in transparency and accountability.
NationPress
16/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the A-Khata conversion scheme?
The A-Khata conversion scheme allows property owners to upgrade their B-Khata properties, which may not comply with regulations, to A-Khata properties that are fully legal and compliant. This process aims to clarify ownership and improve property valuation.
Why is Kumaraswamy accusing the government of extortion?
Kumaraswamy alleges that the government is charging exorbitant fees for the conversion from B-Khata to A-Khata, claiming that this scheme is a cover for extracting substantial amounts of money from the citizens of Bengaluru.
How much does it cost to convert from B-Khata to A-Khata?
The application fee for converting from B-Khata to A-Khata is Rs 500, but additional costs for property owners can range from Rs 4 to 8 lakh, depending on the size of the property.
What are the implications of this scheme for property owners?
The A-Khata scheme is expected to benefit around 15 lakh property owners in Bengaluru by providing legal recognition and improving property valuations, but it also raises concerns about the financial burden on citizens due to high conversion fees.
What has been the government's response to these allegations?
The government has described the A-Khata conversion scheme as a historic initiative to regularize properties and enhance the property market, while also emphasizing its potential benefits for citizens.
