Karnataka High Court Issues Fire, Occupancy and Safety Rules for Bengaluru PG Accommodations

Karnataka High Court orders coordinated regulation of Bengaluru paying guest facilities

The Karnataka High Court issued a broad set of safety and enforcement directions for private paying guest accommodations in Bengaluru after authorities disclosed that a large number of facilities may be operating without proper licences, sanctioned plans or adequate fire-safety arrangements.

Justice Suraj Govindaraj directed local authorities to identify all PG premises, including unlicensed establishments, those with expired licences and facilities operating in buildings not approved for such use. Authorities must examine actual use rather than simply accept the label used by an operator.

Building, occupancy, fire and electrical checks

The directions require verification of sanctioned building plans, land use, zoning, structural safety and unauthorised alterations. Inspectors must also compare licensed capacity with actual occupancy and examine compliance with space requirements.

Fire and electrical safety have been treated as priority life-safety issues. Authorities must verify fire clearances, extinguishers, smoke detectors, emergency lighting and exits, LPG and kitchen safety, electrical panels, earthing, circuit protection and exposed or overloaded wiring.

CCTV, privacy and occupant protection

CCTV systems must be functional, with appropriate coverage, recording, retention and backup. Cameras cannot be installed in bedrooms, bathrooms, toilets, changing areas or other places where occupants have a legitimate expectation of privacy. Security measures must particularly protect women and vulnerable residents, and complaints involving violence or harassment cannot be suppressed through internal settlement mechanisms.

Final directions

Authorities were ordered to coordinate enforcement and place a consolidated regulatory protocol before the Court within six weeks. The protocol must identify applicable laws, responsible agencies, inspection methodology, classification of violations, rectification periods and consequences of non-compliance. The matter is listed next for September 28.

Case: Princess Ladies PG v The Chief Commissioner

Judge: Justice Suraj Govindaraj

Source: https://www.barandbench.com/news/litigation/overcrowding-to-fire-safety-karnataka-hc-issues-safety-guidelines-for-bengaluru-pgs