KSCA in hot water over unpaid advertisement tax, BBMP issues stern warning

The Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) has found itself under scrutiny after reportedly failing to pay advertisement tax to the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) for several years. According to civic authorities, KSCA has been continuously violating BBMP rules by displaying numerous advertisement boards, especially digital LED screens, inside and outside M. Chinnaswamy Stadium during cricket matches, without obtaining any formal permission or paying the mandatory taxes.

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As per BBMP regulations, any advertisement installed in public or private spaces, including sports stadiums, must be taxed. Despite this, multiple advertising hoardings have been installed in and around the stadium premises, especially during high-profile matches, generating substantial revenue. However, none of these were officially approved by BBMP, nor has any tax been paid for them, officials said.

The BBMP had issued a formal notice to KSCA on May 13, clearly stating the violations and demanding immediate clarification. The notice also included a stern warning that failure to comply would lead to financial penalties along with the recovery of pending taxes. Despite the notice, KSCA has allegedly not responded, leading to accusations that the body is disregarding civic laws.

BBMP insiders confirmed to NewsFirst Prime that this is not the first time such violations have occurred. They further stated that legal proceedings may be initiated if KSCA continues to ignore the tax obligations and notices.