Karnataka bill lets government take over apartment associations

The Karnataka government has introduced the Karnataka Apartments (Ownership and Management) Bill, 2026 in the Assembly, which includes a provision allowing it to take over an apartment association if two-thirds of owners request it. The Times of India reports that the competent authority, with approval from a first appellate authority, can then assume and discharge the association's functions, appoint staff, and recover expenses as common charges.

The News Minute reports that the bill, which will replace two laws from 1972, also clarifies that common areas are owned collectively by apartment owners, not the association, and that future development rights belong to owners, not promoters. Redevelopment will require 75% owner consent, and promoters face fines of up to Rs 1 lakh for non-compliance.

The bill mandates one registered association per project, caps executive committee terms at two years, and requires a 50% quorum for general body meetings. The government plans to notify model bye-laws after public consultation.