Belagavi City Corporation (BCC) is embroiled in a controversy over missing property documents and mismanagement of assets worth crores of rupees. The issue has forced BCC to launch a survey to locate and identify its properties. Allegations of document theft and corruption have surfaced, with over 95 BCC properties leased or rented out, and many leases expired or unpaid, resulting in INR 26 crore in outstanding dues. Corporators and MLA Abhay Patil demand a high-level investigation, highlighting the potential for large-scale corruption. BCC officials are taking measures to address these concerns and ensure transparency.
The Belagavi City Corporation (BCC) is facing a serious controversy concerning its own property holdings worth crores of rupees. The corporation has been forced to launch a comprehensive survey to locate and identify its assets following allegations of missing documents, mismanagement, and outstanding dues of INR 26 crore.
Corporators (elected representatives) in the BCC have raised serious concerns about a rise in document thefts from various corporation offices over the past 4-5 years. These missing documents are primarily related to properties owned by the BCC, leading to suspicions of potential corruption and forgery.
Further complicating the situation, over 95 BCC properties leased or rented to government and social service organizations are unaccounted for. The lease agreements for more than 70 of these properties, with a total estimated value of crores of rupees, have expired. However, the BCC has failed to regain possession of these properties. Additionally, rent remains unpaid on many properties.
Corporators allege that laxity by BCC officials has resulted in the corporation losing out on significant annual revenue. Estimates suggest that outstanding dues from leased assets amount to a staggering INR 26 crore.
The situation has sparked accusations of personal gain by some officials. Corporators suspect that certain properties were leased out for personal benefit, with some even converted into commercial shops generating rent of INR 2-3 lakh per month.
MLA Abhay Patil has called for a high-level investigation into the matter. He highlights the suspicious timing of document thefts coinciding with a lack of clear information regarding leased properties, raising concerns about potential large-scale corruption.
BCC officials are attempting to address the concerns. Reshma Talikote, commissioner of BCC revenue department, has acknowledged the lack of information regarding leased properties and their locations. A survey is currently underway to locate all BCC assets.
Ashok Dudagunti, commissioner BCC, has assured stricter measures to protect corporation properties.
This incident serves as a reminder for local authorities to maintain proper records and ensure transparency in property management. Homebuyers and real estate investors in Belagavi should be aware of this situation, as it raises concerns about the overall efficiency and accountability of the BCC.
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