
Tue Feb 24 01:30:44 UTC 2026: # RERA-Karnataka Faces Enforcement Hurdles Despite High Complaint Disposal Rate
The Story:
A recent status report by the Union Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs reveals that Real Estate Regulatory Authority – Karnataka (RERA-K) has achieved an 80% progress in disposing of complaints. However, the Forum for People’s Collective Efforts (FPCE) argues that this disposal rate is misleading, as actual enforcement of orders, such as ensuring refunds or possession for homebuyers, remains a significant challenge. Data from January 23, 2026, shows a dismal recovery rate of just 8.24% in number and 9.81% in value of Revenue Recovery Certificates (RRCs) issued by RERA-K.
Key Points:
- RERA-K has achieved an 80% complaint disposal rate.
- FPCE criticizes the focus on disposal rates, highlighting the lack of enforcement.
- Only 282 out of 2,325 RRCs, worth ₹110.27 crore out of ₹1,081.84 crore, have been recovered.
- Lax implementation of RRCs is a longstanding issue, as they are referred to the State’s revenue administration for implementation.
- FPCE has advocated for RERA-K to have the power to execute its own orders, similar to models in Gujarat and Haryana.
- M.S. Shankar, General Secretary of FPCE, calls for a national RERA portal to track cases until actual recovery.
- The report was updated on February 24, 2026.
Key Takeaways:
- High complaint disposal rates by RERA authorities do not necessarily translate to effective resolution for homebuyers.
- Enforcement of RERA orders, particularly the recovery of funds, remains a significant bottleneck in Karnataka.
- Granting RERA-K the power to execute its own orders, as seen in Gujarat and Haryana, could improve enforcement.
- Increased transparency and tracking of cases until actual recovery are needed to build trust in the RERA system.
- A national RERA portal could provide better oversight and accountability.
Impact Analysis:
The continued struggle with enforcement of RERA orders could erode confidence in the real estate market and discourage potential homebuyers. The lack of effective redressal mechanisms may lead to increased litigation and further delays in resolving disputes. The proposed national RERA portal and granting execution powers to state RERA authorities could have a significant positive impact by improving transparency, accountability, and ultimately, the protection of homebuyers’ rights. This situation highlights the need for a more holistic approach to RERA implementation, focusing not just on disposal rates but also on tangible outcomes for aggrieved parties. The dip in mortgage rates (as indicated by the historical context) could spur further real estate activity, exacerbating existing enforcement issues if not addressed effectively.