The Karnataka Legislative Assembly’s Joint Scrutiny Committee, reviewing the Greater Bengaluru Governance Bill, 2024, held two public consultations on Monday, drawing mixed reactions from citizens and stakeholders.

The bill proposes splitting Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) into five independent municipal corporations to improve governance and public services. Committee Chairman Rizwan Arshad emphasized that Bengaluru’s rapid growth requires decentralized administration for better efficiency.

However, strong opposition emerged against the proposed sharing of property tax revenues between corporations. Former Minister and BJP MLA S.T. Somashekhar supported the bill, arguing that dividing BBMP—each with up to 75 elected corporators and separate Chief Commissioners—would enhance administration, ensuring each ward serves around 30,000 residents effectively.

The bill also suggests extending the mayor’s term and restructuring BBMP elections. With 17 committee meetings already conducted, further public consultations will be held across six locations in Bengaluru.