Karnataka Introduces Fully Automated Property Mutation System
In a significant move towards digital governance, Revenue Minister Krishna Byre Gowda officially launched a statewide automatic property mutation system in Bengaluru on Tuesday. This innovative system empowers the revenue department to update land ownership records in the Record of Rights, Tenancy and Crops (RTC) entirely without human intervention, marking a transformative step in administrative efficiency.
A Major Milestone in Departmental Transformation
Byre Gowda emphasized that this reform represents a crucial achievement in the department's ongoing transformation drive, which has been active for over two-and-a-half years. He highlighted that the traditional process of mutation registration, a core function of the department, previously required citizens to make multiple visits to government offices, often leading to prolonged delays and the involvement of middlemen.
"With the introduction of automatic mutation, citizens can now complete khata transfers or mutation registration online from the comfort of their homes using their mobile phones," Gowda stated. This shift aims to enhance convenience and transparency for property owners across Karnataka.
Pilot Success and Statewide Expansion
The system underwent a successful month-long pilot in Mandya, where it achieved an impressive 98% automation rate in processing mutation transfers. Following this trial, auto mutation was initially implemented for documents that do not require statutory notice starting from April 2024.
Between April 1, 2024, and February 20, 2026, the system facilitated a staggering 35,11,987 khata transfers. By replacing physical visits and biometric authentication with digital signatures, it has saved considerable time for both citizens and officials, streamlining bureaucratic procedures.
Streamlined Notice Periods and Automated Approvals
The automated system has now been expanded statewide to handle documents that require notice periods. Specifically:
- Registered transactions carry a seven-day notice period.
- Non-registered cases are subject to a 15-day notice period.
Applications are automatically approved on the 8th day for registered transactions and the 16th day for non-registered ones, provided no objections are raised during the notice period. This automation ensures faster processing and reduces manual oversight.
Enhanced Access and Dispute Resolution Mechanisms
Information regarding mutations can be easily accessed through the e-Chawadi platform. For disputes, applications must be submitted with relevant documents via e-KYC within the stipulated time frame. Only applications accompanied by appropriate documentation will be forwarded to the tahsildar court for resolution.
Disputes are required to be resolved within 90 days. After this period, khata transfers will proceed through the automated mutation system, ensuring timely closure of cases.
Aadhaar Integration to Combat Fraud
To further secure property ownership and curb fraudulent transactions, Byre Gowda urged landowners to link their Aadhaar with RTC records. This integration will trigger SMS alerts to owners for any changes, sales, court orders, or name additions, thereby helping prevent unauthorized mutations and enhancing security.
Reducing Workload for Revenue Officials
Rajender Kumar Kataria, Additional Chief Secretary of the Revenue Department, noted that the automated system will significantly reduce the workload of revenue inspectors and village accountants. These officials will no longer need to visit tahsildar offices to complete mutation procedures, allowing them to focus on other critical tasks and improving overall departmental productivity.
This comprehensive rollout underscores Karnataka's commitment to leveraging technology for better governance, making property transactions more efficient, transparent, and accessible for all citizens.
