The Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) is set to send notices to more than four lakh property owners suspected of avoiding property tax by providing inaccurate information regarding their properties.
This initiative is a result of a comprehensive analysis based on data obtained from the Digitally Owned Number (DON) Survey. Although there are over 20 lakh properties within the BBMP jurisdiction, the civic authority is currently generating just under Rs 5,000 crore each year in property tax—significantly less than the potential revenue. Officials have noted that many property owners have taken advantage of the self-declaration system, underreporting the size of their properties to lessen their tax obligations.
An official stated, “In response to this, BBMP’s revenue department has now utilized data gathered from the Drone survey and UPR (Urban Property Ownership Records), which encompass information on approximately 15 lakh properties. Furthermore, BBMP has obtained GPS-based photographs and data for each property.
These records are being compared with ownership documentation and supporting materials, including those submitted for e-Khata registration, to detect any inconsistencies. Should discrepancies arise—such as unreported floor space or inaccuracies in the height and number of floors—property owners will be issued formal notices.
Sources indicate that the BBMP aims to collect Rs 6,000 crore in property tax for the fiscal year 2025-26, and is providing a 5% rebate for those who settle their dues by May 31. Starting in June, the BBMP will commence issuing notices to defaulters and long-term evaders on a ward-wise basis. In severe instances, officials have stated that properties may be subject to seizure or auction. An official remarked, “BBMP is also in the process of developing technology that will facilitate the automatic issuance of notices via SMS to the registered mobile numbers of property owners who have submitted false information on the BBMP property tax portal.
Officials have confirmed to Kannada Prabha that approximately 4 lakh such cases have already been identified, and notices will be dispatched shortly.” According to BBMP officials, the revenue department has identified four lakh properties with inaccurate self-declarations. With further cases under examination, BBMP expects to recover an additional Rs 1,000 crore in property tax and penalties in the upcoming months.
As of Sunday, the BBMP has successfully collected Rs 2,036 crore in property tax. With only a few days remaining in May, the civic body is striving to surpass the Rs 3,000 crore threshold before the rebate period concludes.
