KSCA in trouble again: BBMP moves to recover Rs 10 crore in advt tax arrears

Bengaluru: The Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA), still grappling with the fallout from the tragic stampede that claimed 11 lives during the RCB victory celebrations at Chinnaswamy Stadium, is now facing fresh trouble. The Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) has initiated proceedings to recover outstanding advertisement tax dues amounting to ₹10 crore from the cricketing body.

KSCA, which has been displaying commercial advertisements in and around the iconic Chinnaswamy Stadium for years, has reportedly failed to pay advertisement taxes despite repeated notices. The civic body is now stepping up its efforts, preparing to issue another formal notice to the association and warning of strict legal action if the dues are not cleared promptly.

According to BBMP officials, KSCA’s prolonged non-compliance with advertisement regulations is a clear violation of civic norms. Although previous attempts were made to collect the dues, the association has allegedly delayed payments, prompting BBMP to consider enforcement measures, including possible seizure of assets or legal proceedings.

This latest development comes amid a period of intense scrutiny for KSCA, already under the scanner with a CID investigation underway following the deadly stampede that occurred during the high-profile RCB IPL victory event. Critics have blamed poor crowd management and lack of coordination with authorities for the tragedy, which shocked the city and raised questions about the planning of large-scale events.

Now, with the BBMP turning up the heat, KSCA is at risk of facing dual crises — legal accountability for the tragic incident and financial consequences due to unpaid taxes. The corporation appears determined to “strike while the iron is hot”, taking advantage of the current focus on KSCA to enforce overdue civic responsibilities.

Sources within the BBMP indicate that this move is not only about recovering funds but also about setting a precedent that even prestigious institutions cannot ignore municipal obligations. “Despite multiple warnings over the years, no action was taken by KSCA. We are now compelled to pursue legal channels if payments are not made,” a BBMP official stated.

With its reputation already dented and a public outcry still simmering, this fresh blow adds further pressure on KSCA to act swiftly. Whether the cricket body will comply and clear the advertisement tax arrears remains to be seen.

For now, KSCA is facing a tough innings — both in the court of public opinion and under the scrutiny of regulatory authorities.