To prevent vacant plots from becoming dumping grounds for garbage, Karnataka chief minister D K Shivakumar announced on Saturday that the state government would take back the allotted plots, refunding the paid amount with interest, if beneficiaries fail to construct houses within five years on the site.The plots include those allotted by agencies such as the Bangalore Development Authority (BDA), City Improvement Trust Board (CITB), civic bodies and cooperative societies.According to the CM, beneficiaries of government-allotted plots have a responsibility to build houses and maintain their properties.“Either double tax will be imposed, or the site will be resumed,” Shivakumar said after launching the “Freedom from Waste” campaign near Hebbal Junction.“There is no other option. We will have to do it. We allot plots for people to build houses”, he added, mentioning the failure of some allottees to construct homes even after 20, 30 or 40 years.Shivkumar highlighted the government’s commitment to keeping Bengaluru clean while holding expectations from property owners to ensure their vacant sites did not become dumping grounds.“We will refund the money they paid, along with interest, and resume the plot. Those who obtained plots from CITB, BDA or cooperative societies have a duty to build houses. How can they leave the plots without even constructing a compound wall and allow them to become garbage dumping sites? Even if they themselves are not dumping garbage there, they are responsible for protecting their property”, said Shivkumar.Notably, the Karnataka government allots plots to eligible beneficiaries under various housing schemes, such as the Namma Mane Scheme, and the Buddha Basava Ambedkar Site Allotment Scheme.
