e-Aasthi software misuse: 2 GBA revenue officers face suspension

Bengaluru: In a major crackdown on alleged irregularities in property documentation, the Greater Bengaluru Authority has suspended two senior revenue officials for issuing illegal e-khatas to more than 100 flats by exploiting a special facility in its e-Aasthi software.

Basavaraj Magi, in-charge revenue officer of Bengaluru East City Corporation, and Lokamatha D.S., in-charge revenue officer of Bengaluru West City Corporation, were placed under suspension following the discovery of violations in property records in the KR Puram and Kengeri zones.

The alleged fraud involved misuse of a software provision designed to facilitate the transfer of properties sold through bank auctions under the SARFAESI Act. Banks can seize and auction properties of loan defaulters under the Act, and the software had a special facility to process such transactions based on valid sale certificates.

Instead, the officials allegedly used ordinary sale deeds and other documents to approve e-khatas, even though the properties did not qualify for the special facility.

According to the suspension orders, Magi cleared approximately 98 applications, while Lokamatha approved six applications through the alleged misuse of the system. More seriously, the approvals were granted despite revenue inspectors submitting adverse reports on the applications.

The GBA has termed the conduct serious misconduct and criminal irregularity, stating that such actions cannot be accepted under any circumstances.

The authority also found that the officials had disregarded at least three departmental circulars issued under the GBA Rules, 2024, besides violating the established standard operating procedure.

The GBA has made it clear that it will not tolerate fraudulent practices or compromise public trust. It has also warned employee associations against protesting the suspensions, stating that such a move would amount to defending fraud and illegal actions.

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