The Government of Karnataka has appointed retired IAS officer Rakesh Singh as the new chairman of the Karnataka Real Estate Regulatory Authority (K-RERA). Singh succeeds H C Kishore Chandra, whose term ended earlier this year, leaving the position vacant.
In the interim period following Chandra’s departure, the state government had issued an order appointing Naveen Raj Singh, Principal Secretary of the Housing Department, as the acting chairman of K-RERA. However, this appointment was challenged in the Karnataka High Court. Earlier this month, the court issued an interim order restraining Naveen Raj Singh from continuing as the acting chairperson. The court observed that there was no provision in the rules for a state government officer to be nominated to fill the vacancy, emphasizing that the senior-most member of K-RERA should serve as the in-charge chairperson until a new appointment was made.
Rakesh Singh’s Extensive Experience
Rakesh Singh brings over 35 years of experience in various key roles within the government. His extensive background includes working in the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP), Bangalore Development Authority (BDA), and the Urban Development Department. Before his retirement, Singh served as the Additional Chief Secretary (ACS) of the Urban Development Department, the Administrator of BBMP, and the ACS of the Water Resources Department.
Singh’s appointment is governed by the terms set forth in the Real Estate (Regulation & Development) Act, 2016, in conjunction with the Karnataka Real Estate (Regulation & Development) Rules, 2017. According to these rules, the chairperson’s term is set for five years from the date they assume office, or until they reach the age of 65, whichever comes first. Re-appointment is not permitted under these guidelines.
Challenges Ahead for the New Chairman
Singh’s appointment comes at a critical juncture as the Karnataka RERA faces several challenges, including concerns raised by homebuyers. The Karnataka Home Buyers Forum recently wrote to the Union Minister of Housing and Urban Affairs, Manohar Lal Khattar, highlighting multiple issues related to the timely disposal of complaints by K-RERA, minimal recovery of compensation awarded to homebuyers, and discrepancies in sale deeds.
Additionally, the homebuyers’ body approached Karnataka Governor Thaawarchand Gehlot last month, urging him to address the implementation challenges associated with RERA in the state. With these concerns in mind, Rakesh Singh’s leadership will be crucial in steering K-RERA towards more effective governance and ensuring the protection of homebuyers’ rights.
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Rakesh Singh’s appointment as the new chairman of Karnataka RERA is expected to bring stability and experienced leadership to the regulatory body. With his extensive background in urban development and administration, Singh is well-positioned to address the pressing issues facing K-RERA, including the timely resolution of homebuyer complaints and the implementation of RERA regulations across the state.