Government-Allotted Plots Must Be Developed Within Five Years, Says Karnataka CM

The Karnataka government is considering strict measures against unused residential plots by reclaiming sites where owners fail to construct houses within a specified period, Chief Minister D K Shivakumar said on Saturday.

He stated that plots allotted through agencies such as the Bangalore Development Authority (BDA), former City Improvement Trust Board (CITB), urban local bodies and cooperative societies could be taken back if beneficiaries do not develop them within five years of allotment.

Addressing reporters after inaugurating the “Freedom from Waste” campaign near Hebbal Junction, Shivakumar said the move was necessary to prevent unoccupied sites from becoming unauthorised waste disposal areas and to encourage responsible use of government-allotted land.

The Chief Minister said individuals who receive residential sites are expected to maintain them and ensure that they serve their intended purpose. He added that leaving plots vacant for extended periods affects the cleanliness and overall environment of Bengaluru. “If a site remains unused, the government will either impose higher taxation or take back the property,” Shivakumar said, adding that authorities had limited options when allotted land remained undeveloped for years.

He noted that several beneficiaries had kept their plots vacant for decades, with some properties remaining unused for 20 to 40 years. In such cases, the government would return the money paid by the allottee along with interest before resuming possession of the land.

Shivakumar emphasised that ownership of a government-allotted site comes with certain responsibilities, including safeguarding the property and preventing it from becoming a source of public inconvenience. He pointed out that even without directly dumping waste, owners of neglected plots contribute to civic problems by failing to maintain their land.

The Chief Minister said the initiative was part of the state’s broader effort to improve urban cleanliness and waste management in Bengaluru, while encouraging residents to play a more active role in maintaining public spaces.