The Karnataka government's initiative to digitise property transactions through mandatory e-khata registration has hit significant roadblocks, causing a 95% drop in registrations in key cities like Bengaluru, Mangaluru, and Mysuru. This decline coincides with efforts by the stamps and registration department to boost revenues by keeping sub-registrar offices open on weekends. Although property registrations had seen a 5% increase earlier this fiscal year, technical glitches and low public awareness hinder the e-khata rollout, prompting Revenue Minister Krishna Byre Gowda to meet with officials to address these challenges and reassure property owners of a flexible timeline for obtaining e-khatas.
In a significant development for property transactions in Karnataka, the first two quarters of this fiscal year have witnessed a notable 5% increase in property registrations compared to the same period last year, generating a remarkable revenue of INR 11,550 crore-up from INR 9,419 crore. This surge coincides with the mandatory implementation of the e-khata system, introduced on September 9, 2023, to combat fraudulent transactions and enhance transparency within the real estate sector. Initially launched in four districts, the e-khata system rapidly expanded statewide by October 7, creating a structured framework for property ownership documentation.
Despite the potential benefits of this digital initiative, the rollout has encountered significant hurdles. A sub-registrar in Bengaluru has noted a considerable decline in daily property registrations, plummeting from the usual 50-60 to just five or six, largely due to initial technical issues associated with the new system. Currently, only 26 out of Bengaluru's 43 sub-registrar offices are exempt from the e-khata requirement, which adds to the strain on the registration process in a city that already has a burgeoning real estate market.
With the BBMP having made draft e-khatas available online for an extensive database of 21 million properties, property owners are now faced with the task of navigating a complex process to secure their final e-khata documents. Requirements include submitting various identification documents and proof of ownership, which have proven challenging for many residents due to portal glitches and a lack of widespread understanding of the new system.
In response to these ongoing issues, Revenue Minister Krishna Byre Gowda convened with BBMP and revenue officials to address the significant roadblocks hindering the implementation of the e-khata system. The minister has emphasised that while the current phase involves technical difficulties, the long-term advantages of digitization will become apparent as the system matures. He also reassured that there is no immediate deadline for obtaining an e-khata, except for those planning to sell their properties, allowing others to complete the process at their own pace.
Furthermore, to assist property owners in navigating the e-khata process, helpdesks have been established across various locations, including BBMP ARO offices, Bengaluru One centres, and rural local body offices. Despite the initial setbacks, the Karnataka government remains steadfast in its commitment to resolve these challenges and enhance the efficiency of property transactions throughout the state. With the support of local authorities and the establishment of assistance centres, officials are optimistic that the benefits of digitization will soon be fully realised by property owners across Karnataka.
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