Karnataka Passes Controversial Park and Apartment Management Bills

The Karnataka Legislative Assembly and Council passed several pieces of legislation on August 24, 2026, despite protests from the BJP and JD(S) parties. The opposition demanded the resignation of Minister B. Nagendra, who faces chargesheets from the CBI and Enforcement Directorate regarding the embezzlement of funds from the Maharshi Valmiki Scheduled Tribes Development Corporation.

Among the passed legislation was the Karnataka Apartment Ownership and Management Bill, 2026, moved by Greater Bengaluru Development Minister Krishna Byre Gowda. This bill mandates the registration and annual auditing of resident welfare associations to address issues related to apartment living.

Additionally, the legislature passed the Karnataka Government Parks (Preservation) (Amendment) Bill, 2026. This measure allows up to 5% of park land to be used for public utility projects. The amendment could affect sites such as the Lalbagh Botanical Garden to facilitate the construction of the Bengaluru North-South Twin Tunnel Road. The Karnataka Municipalities Amendment Bill, 2026, was also passed during the session.