BENGALURU: With just two days left for the legislature budget session to conclude, homeowners in Karnataka are disappointed as the much-anticipated new bill on apartment ownership has neither been tabled nor are there signs that it will happen soon. The delay has fuelled frustration among homeowners’ associations, which have been demanding a clear legal framework on property ownership and maintenance.
Bangalore Apartments’ Federation (BAF) Monday met deputy chief minister DK Shivakumar and submitted a representation, a copy of which is with TOI.
Shivakumar told the delegation that he hasn’t received the draft bill as yet. Assuring them that it would be tabled soon, he, however, said it won’t be possible during this assembly session as there are too many processes involved and the cabinet has not yet approved it.
The federation highlighted how lack of legal clarity on ownership, title and maintenance of group housing projects — such as apartments and villas — has caused anxiety among homeowners for decades. Despite the Karnataka Apartment Ownership Act being in place since 1972, its implementation has remained ineffective, leading to confusion over land rights and association responsibilities.
During the last budget session, Shivakumar and the govt had assured legislators that a new, comprehensive law would be introduced to address these concerns. However, no progress has been made so far.
Satish Mallya, vice-president of BAF, expressed dissatisfaction over the failure to bring in the new apartment ownership and management bill during this assembly session. “One thing is clear — there is a process involved; that it has to go through the cabinet, which we respect. But when it will happen is still uncertain. Our demand is simple: Bring it in early to safeguard the interest of homebuyers. The DCM seems to be serious about it, hope the govt will at least bring in an ordinance soon,” he said.
As previously reported by TOI, the govt aims to finalise the new Apartment Ownership Act by year-end to address ownership and governance issues. Uma Shankar SR, additional chief secretary, had told TOI that work on legislation was under way.
Modelled on similar laws in Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra and Telangana, the proposed act seeks to define ownership rights, association roles and regulations for common areas. However, homeowner associations remain sceptical, arguing that the draft lacks clarity and could further complicate existing disputes.
