E-Khata Revitalizes the Municipality
Belagavi – The government introduces numerous public welfare schemes, but many fail due to poor execution. For any initiative to succeed, officials must take responsibility and ensure proper implementation. The Belagavi City Corporation has set a remarkable example of how dedicated efforts can yield significant results.
The Karnataka government launched the ambitious E-Khata and B-Khata schemes, with District Minister Satish Jarkiholi inaugurating the initiative. However, like many other schemes, this too could have remained ineffective due to administrative negligence.
But Municipal Commissioner Shubha B took a proactive approach. She personally stepped into the field and ensured that the previously inactive Revenue Department was mobilized for action. The results were immediate—within just 20 days, starting from the 18th of last month, the E-Khata and B-Khata initiatives collectively generated a staggering ₹3 crore in revenue for the municipality.
This initiative has provided a much-needed financial lifeline to the struggling Belagavi City Corporation. The government’s digital property documentation system and E-Khata have proven to be vital tools for property tax collection. Of the total revenue collected, ₹1.5 crore came from E-Khata, while B-Khata contributed ₹54 lakh. Encouraged by this overwhelming response, Commissioner Shubha has announced plans to further streamline and expand the initiative.
A New Ray of Hope for Development
For years, the Belagavi City Corporation has struggled with a shortage of funds for development projects. Now, with this financial turnaround, there is renewed optimism. The increased revenue collection has given the municipality the confidence to take up long-pending infrastructure projects.
For instance, in the Shahapur Double Road case, the corporation lacked ₹20 crore to compensate registered property owners. However, with the recent surge in revenue, the financial situation is improving, offering hope for resolving such longstanding issues.
Additionally, Commissioner Shubha has taken decisive steps to improve tax collection by holding the Revenue Department accountable. However, further action is necessary. The department needs a complete overhaul to prevent tax evasion and financial mismanagement. Years of negligence have pushed the corporation to the brink of financial collapse, and those responsible must be identified and removed.
Urgent Need for a High-Level Investigation
Given the past inefficiencies, a high-level investigation into the Revenue Department’s functioning over the last year is imperative. Corruption and administrative failures have severely impacted the corporation’s financial health. The commissioner must take strong measures to ensure transparency and accountability. Only through such decisive action can the Belagavi City Corporation achieve long-term financial stability and continue providing essential services to its residents.
