Karnataka - Bangalore

Reader's Mail

Increase in registration rates

Sir, — The hurriedly announced increase in land guidance values and registration rates is a severe blow to middle-class people who want to buy or build a house. The Government cannot double the registration rates without any explanation. I think the Revenue Department suffered major losses in the recent months due to the ban imposed on the sale and registration of non-BDA property, and this is a means to make up for the loss.

Asit Kumar,

Bangalore

Urban reforms

Sir, — It is heartening to know that the Government has finally started listening to the need for urban reforms. The bane of urban growth in the State has been the lack of planning and implementation through citizens' participation. This has led most urban dwellers to conclude that they have no influence in the decision-making process.

The State has made great strides in implementing the Panchayat Raj reforms, and in the process, rural people have gained enormous influence in decision-making. It is not surprising that some political parties have come out against even considering these proposals. They anticipate that such a process will reduce their power. However, given the pressures of coalition politics, it is unlikely that the State Government will move the reforms agenda forward.

C.N. Kumar,

Bangalore

Extra charges being collected

Sir, — Bangalore Electricity Supply Company (BESCOM) is collecting Rs. 50 every month as fixed charges in addition to the charges for electricity consumed. The amount is collected even if the usage is within the first slab. This amounts to extortion. Will the BESCOM authorities please inform the consumers why it is collecting these charges?

S. Jayaram,

Bangalore

Readers can also email

their letters to:letters. bangalore@thehindu.co.in

Gulbarga

© Copyright 2000 - 2009 The Hindu