The Karnataka Cabinet has given its nod to amend the Karnataka Rent Act, 1999, a move that brings the state’s rental legislation into harmony with a broader Central law. The primary objective of these revisions is to ‘decriminalize’ or, more accurately, to rationalize certain offenses and their associated penalties.
Following a Cabinet meeting on Thursday, Law and Parliamentary Affairs Minister H.K. Patil addressed reporters, explaining that the proposed changes are designed to simplify the process of renting out properties. He optimistically described the outcome as a “win-win situation” for both property owners and tenants, highlighting the particular benefits for industrial sheds.
Specifically, the amendments will target Sections 24, 25, 53, 54, and 55 of the Act. These adjustments are intended to enhance compliance regarding rent payments and to ensure that penalties are just and proportionate.
This decision is particularly timely given the rapid expansion of Karnataka’s rental market, most notably in Bengaluru, which has unfortunately seen a corresponding increase in disputes between landlords and tenants.
In addition to the Rent Act reforms, the Cabinet also deliberated and approved several other crucial initiatives. Among these was an allocation of ₹16.30 crore for the construction of Karnataka Bhavan-II in Chanakyapuri, New Delhi.
Further approvals included the Male Mahadeshwara Hill Authority Bill, 2025, which provides for the inclusion of specific individuals in the authority responsible for governing M.M. Hills and its temple. Substantial funds were also sanctioned for development projects: ₹128.74 crore for essential drainage work in Channapatna (located in Bengaluru South, formerly Ramanagara district), and ₹95.6 crore for upgrading the government hospital at Virajpet in Kodagu, expanding its capacity from 60 to 250 beds.
To foster a merit-based system for government promotions, the Karnataka Civil Service Rules, 2025, were approved. Minister Patil confirmed that these new rules will mandate the consideration of necessary skills for directors, deputy directors, and secretaries during their promotion processes.
Moreover, the Cabinet approved ₹450 crore for the construction of new buildings and residential quarters for the staff and students of the Bagalkot Institute of Medical Sciences. An additional ₹466.93 crore was allocated for critical infrastructure, including the construction of protective walls in coastal and ‘malnad’ (hilly) districts and implementing measures to prevent landslips, encompassing a total of 720 distinct projects.
Lastly, ₹200 crore was approved for the development of farm ponds and initiatives aimed at rainwater harvesting under the Agriculture Department’s Krishi Bhagya scheme, reinforcing sustainable agricultural practices across the state.