Bengaluru building collapse: Spotlight falls on a Rs 5 lakh bribe that enabled rule violation

In Bengaluru, the recent collapse of a building in the east part of the city has raised concerns about how the BBMP allowed illegal construction, ToI reported on October 24. The toll in the building crash in Bengaluru following heavy rain rose to eight, with a few people still feared trapped. Fourteen people have been rescued; the building owner, his son and a contractor have been arrested, the report (by Nithya Mandyam) said.

According to ToI's report, the building owner had permission to build three stories but constructed six. Civic officials only issued notices but took no stringent action.

Local residents believe a bribe of Rs 5 lakh was paid to a civic official and a politician's aide to permit the extra floors. No attention was paid to construction quality, resulting in the building's collapse before completion, which killed several labourers.

Following public outcry, BBMP suspended the assistant executive engineer of Horamavu subdivision and ordered an inquiry. Congress member DK Mohan stated, "It is a 100% breach. The bribe amount to allow such constructions depends on the size of the building."

Former bureaucrats mentioned that officials face pressure from political leaders and prioritise quick money, compromising safety. BBMP chief commissioner Tushar Giri Nath admitted that many areas lack proper building licenses, leading to unauthorised constructions. He said the assistant executive engineer was responsible but did not take further action.

Zonal commissioner KN Ramesh explained that three notices were given to the building owner to demolish illegal portions but were not acted upon in time. Joint commissioner Dakshayini K criticised the use of substandard materials, suggesting the building would have collapsed even without heavy rains.

Lokayukta Justice BS Patil, along with other officials, visited the site and criticised the inaction. "Notice was issued only when the construction reached the fourth floor. Even after the notice, no steps were taken to halt the construction," said Justice Patil. The Lokayukta has summoned officials, including the Commissioner, for explanations.