BDA hikes property tax by up to 45%, residents protest lack of infrastructure

Bengaluru Development Authority (BDA) has increased property tax by 20 to 45 percent across nine layouts, BDA-approved layouts, and allotted apartments under its jurisdiction, sparking widespread public outrage. Residents argue that the hike is unjustified, as BDA has failed to provide adequate infrastructure in these areas.

The decision affects more than 1.22 lakh property owners, including those in Arkavathi, Banashankari, and Nadaprabhu Kempegowda layouts. Resident associations have expressed strong opposition, criticizing the tax hike as “unscientific” given the poor state of roads, drainage systems, and basic amenities. BDA collects approximately ₹55–60 crore annually in property taxes.

Last year, the agency reportedly collected nearly ₹100 crore, while ₹40 crore in taxes remain unpaid. The revised tax rates were published on BDA’s website on April 28, with the new rates effective from January 2025 based on updated property guideline values. In Nadaprabhu Kempegowda Layout, for instance, taxes for a 50x80 sq ft site have increased from ₹6,044 to ₹9,224. Residents, many of whom have paid taxes for eight years without seeing basic infrastructure completed, argue that renting a home is now a more practical option than owning one.

Residents demand that infrastructure projects be completed first before imposing higher taxes.The BDA’s decision to hike property taxes without corresponding infrastructure development has left residents frustrated.

Despite paying taxes for years, essential services like roads, drainage, and water supply remain inadequate. This has led to widespread discontent, with many questioning the fairness and transparency of the tax increase.