In a landmark decision aimed at addressing widespread unauthorised construction, the Karnataka state cabinet has given its nod to a massive regularisation drive. The move will legalise approximately 10 lakh plots, buildings, apartments, and flats situated within illegally developed layouts across the state's urban centres.
A Statewide Scheme Inspired by Past Models
The cabinet's approval, granted on Thursday, January 8, 2026, paves the way for issuing A khata certificates to these properties. This initiative mirrors the intent of the earlier Akrama-Sakrama scheme for Bengaluru, which was later stayed by the Supreme Court. However, the new scheme will be implemented in all urban local bodies across Karnataka except Bengaluru.
According to an official cabinet note, the primary goal is to control unauthorised development while introducing citizen-friendly reforms. By bringing these illegal layouts under the legal framework, the government aims to halt the rampant creation and sale of sites that lack proper approval from competent authorities.
Financial Boost for Urban Local Bodies
The decision extends a scheme originally launched for the Greater Bengaluru Authority limits on November 1, 2025. That scheme offered a 100-day window for converting B-khata plots to A-khata status upon payment of a fixed fee. Now, this opportunity is being expanded to other major cities in Karnataka.
The government anticipates a significant financial upside. Granting approvals for these unauthorised properties is expected to raise substantial revenues for Urban Local Bodies (ULBs). This financial empowerment will enable them to better plan and execute development projects within their jurisdictions. Major cities set to benefit include Mysuru, Mangaluru, and Belagavi.
Criteria and Justification
The cabinet's decision was based on recommendations from a committee headed by the director of the Directorate of Municipal Administration. This committee established fixed criteria for the regularisation of properties currently on the B-khata register.
Explaining the rationale, Law and Parliamentary Affairs Minister H K Patil stated that the approach involves condoning deficiencies and violations by imposing penalties, thereby regularising the partial deviations from building norms.
This sweeping regularisation drive represents one of the state's most significant interventions in urban planning and property governance, aiming to resolve long-standing issues for lakhs of property owners while strengthening municipal finances.
