The Government of Karnataka, on April 8, 2026, issued a draft notification under Section 421 read with Sections 66, 67, and 176 of the Karnataka Municipal Corporations Act, 1976 proposing the Karnataka Municipal Corporations (Estate Management) Rules, 2026. The draft has been published for public consultation, and objections or suggestions may be submitted within 30 days from the date of publication in the Official Gazette to the Urban Development Department.
The draft rules aim to regulate the management of municipal corporation estates, including land and buildings. They define key terms such as “Authorized Officer,” “Commissioner,” “Designated Officer,” and “Estate of Municipal Corporations.” The rules assign responsibility for estate management primarily to the Deputy Commissioner (Revenue) under the supervision of the Commissioner, with Zonal Commissioners handling implementation at the zonal level. Importantly, only such properties that are not required for present or future public use may be sold or leased.
Further, the rules mandate transparency in disposal of municipal properties by requiring sale or lease through public tender or e-auction, subject to specified exceptions. A comprehensive and updated list of immovable properties must be maintained and published online. Sales are restricted to government entities, public sector bodies, and the general public with prior government approval, and must be based on market guidance value as per the Karnataka Stamp Act, 1957. Certain public infrastructure uses are exempted from cost, ensuring alignment with public welfare objectives.
[Notification No. UDD 184 MNE 2024]
