Wed Oct 15 06:21:30 UTC 2025: ## Bengaluru Residents Demand Property Tax Suspension Amid Infrastructure Woes
**Bengaluru, India – October 15, 2025** – Frustrated by persistent flooding and disruptive infrastructure projects, residents of eastern Bengaluru are demanding the Karnataka government suspend property tax collection until basic civic amenities are restored. The Individual Tax Payers’ Forum (ITPF), representing taxpayers in Varthur, Panathur, and Balagere, has penned a letter to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, accusing civic agencies of “unscientific, incomplete, and poorly coordinated” infrastructure work.
The letter, dated October 13th, alleges that white-topping and drainage projects have exacerbated flooding, disrupted traffic, and negatively impacted daily life. Despite repeated appeals and even the Chief Minister’s visit to the flood-stricken Varthur area last month, residents claim authorities have only implemented patchwork solutions. They specifically cited major flooding events on October 10th and 11th as evidence of ongoing issues.
The ITPF further alleges that faulty drainage systems are improperly connected to sewage lines, leading to backflow during heavy rains. Concerns were also raised about newly resurfaced roads that are holding water due to incorrect gradient designs.
The forum is requesting a comprehensive scientific audit of all ongoing projects, completion of the stormwater network before further white-topping occurs, and stricter accountability measures for contractors and officials. They are also calling for the construction of safe footpaths and action against encroachments that are blocking natural drainage channels.
“Namma Bengaluru is globally known as India’s IT hub, but such civic negligence erodes the pride and credibility of Brand Bengaluru,” the forum stated in their letter. “Citizens are not against paying taxes, but want them to be reflected in better services.”
Swetha, an ITPF member, confirmed that the letter, signed by nearly 40 local residents, has been sent to the Chief Minister via email. She stated that residents are prepared to independently invest in infrastructure improvements if the government temporarily suspends property tax collection.
This demand for tax suspension highlights growing discontent among Bengaluru residents, who feel their tax contributions are not being adequately used to address the city’s infrastructure challenges. The situation remains tense as residents await a response from the Chief Minister and the Karnataka government.
First Piper 