The Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) has issued a strong warning to NGOs and private organizations against unauthorized fundraising in the name of lake development. Officials stated that collecting money from the public for rejuvenation activities without legal approval is a violation of law and will invite strict action.
Reports have surfaced of NGOs installing QR codes and seeking UPI payments in various areas, particularly in South Bengaluru, for lake development projects. A senior BBMP engineer noted that some private groups have even deployed security personnel and obstructed BBMP teams and engineers from carrying out maintenance work.
BBMP clarified that all city lakes fall under its jurisdiction and private entities cannot raise funds without a formal agreement. Such agreements must explicitly prohibit any form of fundraising or commercial activity related to the lake.
In response, the Karnataka Tank Development and Conservation Authority (KTDCA) has supported BBMP’s stand, stating that any financial activity in the name of water resource development will be deemed illegal unless cleared by the court. KTDCA has also issued a notice to a private organization already found violating the rules.
BBMP and KTDCA teams have been directed to monitor lake-related activities, and any NGOs found involved in unauthorized fundraising will have their permissions revoked. The matter is currently under judicial consideration, with a petition transferred to the Supreme Court. Officials reiterated that until a legal resolution is reached, such collections remain unlawful, and strict scrutiny will continue.
