Owner of Bengaluru Building Collapse Accused of Permit Violations and Bribery Allegations

The recent collapse of a building in Bengaluru has drawn attention to illegal construction practices and regulatory shortcomings, leading to the tragic deaths of eight individuals and injuring six others. The incident, which took place following heavy rainfall, has left some residents missing, while 14 others have been rescued from the rubble.

Reports indicate that the building's owner was authorized to construct only three floors but proceeded to build seven instead. Despite civic officials issuing notices regarding these violations, there was a lack of decisive action taken against the illegal construction. Local residents claim that a bribe of ₹5 lakh was allegedly paid to a civic official and a politician's aide to ignore these serious breaches, raising concerns about the overall safety and integrity of the structure.

The Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP), the city's primary civic body, has faced scrutiny from residents for its apparent tolerance of illegal constructions and encroachments. BBMP Chief Commissioner Tushar Giri Nath acknowledged that several areas in Bengaluru are plagued by unauthorized buildings lacking proper permits. Although three notices were issued to the owner demanding the demolition of illegal extensions, no timely action was taken.

Critics, including Joint Commissioner Dakshayini, have pointed to the use of substandard materials in the construction as a key factor in the building's collapse, suggesting that failure was likely inevitable, even without the adverse weather conditions. Lokayukta Justice BS Patil expressed frustration over the situation, highlighting that notices were only issued after construction reached the fourth floor, and emphasized the need for accountability from officials who failed to act promptly.