The Karnataka government will bring the Greater Bengaluru Governance Act (GBGA), 2024 into effect on May 15, replacing the BBMP Act, 20, setting the stage for a major overhaul of how Bengaluru is governed. Law and Parliamentary Affairs Minister H K Patil announced on Friday, May 9 that the GBGA notification, outlining the implementation framework, will be issued on May 15. The restructured civic body, likely to retain the BBMP name, will continue to oversee Bengaluru's governance under an appointed administrator.
The Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) will be the planning authority under which seven city corporations will function in the Greater Bengaluru area. The city corporations will have the power to levy taxes, cesses and duties.
In April, Karnataka Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot gave his assent to the bill following a request for clarifications earlier in March, subsequent to its passage in the Budget session. The government addressed concerns and resubmitted the Bill for approval.
The Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA), mandated by the Act, will govern an area not exceeding the current BBMP's 709 sq km jurisdiction. Post-notification, the government will commence the division process to establish multiple corporations within Bengaluru.
Chief Minister Siddaramaiah will chair the GBA, overseeing administrative control, urban planning, coordination among public authorities, and the execution of major infrastructure projects, including mobility plans.
The controversial Bill was passed in the Karnataka Legislative Assembly and Council amid walkouts by the BJP and JD(S).
Critics argue that the GBGA consolidates authority under the state government, potentially diluting local self-governance. In contrast, the Congress government defends the Act's provision to break BBMP into smaller corporations, citing enhanced efficiency in delivering civic services.
According to the existing BBMP Act, Bengaluru is overseen by a single mayor, whereas the GBGA advocates for multiple city corporations to decentralise leadership. It has been nearly nine years since the last council elections were held. The elections, supposed to occur every five years, have been delayed since 2020, leaving critical posts vacant. Since the term of the last BBMP Council ended in September 2020, elections have been repeatedly postponed.
The GBGA Act also introduces heritage conservation regulations, categorising buildings into three grades with varying levels of protection. While ward committees and city corporations gain autonomy over budget allocations, the state government retains authority to appoint or remove commissioners.
