Greater Bengaluru Governance Bill 2024: A New Era in City Administration

The Greater Bengaluru Governance Bill 2024, aimed at decentralizing city governance with multiple corporations, was passed in the Legislative Council. Deputy CM DK Shivakumar emphasized the need for modernization, drawing from Bengaluru's historical foundation and ensuring future development through strategic planning and government support for economically weaker regions.

The Greater Bengaluru Governance Bill 2024, which proposes the decentralisation of governance in Bengaluru City through multiple corporations, was passed in the Legislative Council on Wednesday. Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar, also in charge of Bengaluru Development, responded to concerns by asserting the bill's significance in laying a new foundation for the city's future, reminiscent of Kempe Gowda's historic contributions.

Drawing on Bengaluru's global status, Shivakumar highlighted the extensive deliberations behind the bill. Addressing planning issues raised by Leader of the Opposition Narayana Swamy, he noted the introduction of a self-declaration scheme for building plan approvals and maintained that Article 74 remains unchanged. Government support will aid economically weaker local bodies due to non-transferable revenues.

CT Ravi's concerns about the BDA and BMRDA were met with assurances of inclusive planning within the Greater Bengaluru region, with regular oversight meetings led by the Chief Minister. Shivakumar underscored the city's rapid growth, expanding from 24 to over 700 square kilometers since Kempe Gowda's era, and stressed bipartisan approval for the bill's passage.

All relevant utility companies and governance agencies in Bengaluru are now under the Greater Bengaluru Authority, Shivakumar informed MLC Saravana. While the provision allows for up to seven corporations, the final number will be determined progressively, with fewer at the outset.

(With inputs from agencies.)