An owner, a developer, and an architect have been arrested for their involvement in the construction of an illegal 20-unit building in Mallathahalli, Rajarajeshwari Nagar zone. The trio allegedly fabricated building plans and violated Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) regulations, leading to a major crackdown by authorities.
The incident follows the tragic building collapse in Babusabpalya, Mahadevapura zone, where nine construction workers lost their lives last week. In response, the BBMP has intensified its scrutiny of construction projects across the city.
According to BC Satish, the Zonal Commissioner for Rajarajeshwari Nagar, a First Information Report (FIR) has been filed for the unauthorized construction of the building on Survey No. 6 and 7 in Mallathahalli. The landowner and General Power of Attorney (GPA) holder, G Lakshmi Prasad, along with Hardeep and A Vijayakumar—partners of Lakvin Developers—had been granted permission for a Stilt Ground Floor First Floor Second Floor Third Floor+ Terrace Floor building, with a total built-up area of 1388.69 sqm.
However, during a routine inspection, BBMP officials uncovered that the trio had instead used a fake building plan to construct six floors, adding 20 dwelling units where only four were allowed. This was a clear violation of BBMP bylaws, and a notice was promptly issued to halt construction and address the contravention.
“It was found that the building was constructed using a forged plan. Instead of four approved units, 20 illegal dwelling units were created,” explained an official involved in the investigation. “Such violations not only contravene the corporation’s rules but also endanger public safety.”
Further investigation revealed that architect Vinod, who was involved in designing the fake plans, also played a key role in the illegal project. As a result, an FIR was lodged against all involved parties, including the architect, and action was taken under various sections of the BBMP Act 2020.
“The landowner, developer, and architect could face arrest for their role in the illegal construction,” said T Hanumantharaya, Assistant Director of Town Planning, BBMP.
BBMP officials have also pointed to the role of local authorities in allowing such violations to occur. Plans are underway to hold officials accountable and prevent further illegal construction activities. “We will ensure that these violations are dealt with swiftly and appropriately, and that accountability is maintained at all levels,” added an official.