BNCC files complaint against websites overcharging for Hebbal crematorium bookings

On June 19, the Bengaluru North City Corporation (BNCC) filed a police complaint against several unauthorized websites for allegedly overcharging grieving citizens to book slots at the electric crematorium in Hebbal. While the official booking fee set by the Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) is Rs 250, these online intermediaries were charging between Rs 3,000 and Rs 5,000 per slot.

The complaint was lodged at the North CEN police station after the fraudulent activity was brought to light by families arriving at local crematoriums. The BNCC manages two electric crematoriums within its limits, located in Hebbal and Medi Agrahara.

According to Rajendra, an Executive Engineer with the BNCC, the civic body realized there was an issue when citizens arriving for funerals mentioned they had paid thousands of rupees for their bookings. Upon investigation, officials discovered that unauthorized portals were booking slots on behalf of the public and pocketing the steep markup.

"Upon checking, we found that these websites were fleecing money and booking on behalf of the public," Rajendra said. He clarified that citizens can book slots directly on the official website for the standard Rs 250 fee.

The non-cognizable report filed by the BNCC identified several specific websites, including 'beleiv.com', 'heavengate.in', and 'swargayatraa.com'.

In Bengaluru, there are 12 electric and traditional crematoriums managed by the GBA, alongside approximately 20 private or trust-run grounds. Officials noted that some agents and middlemen also collaborate with crematorium staff to secure desired slots as part of broader funeral service packages.

While the official rate for a basic booking remains Rs 250, some private funeral service providers admitted to offering comprehensive packages priced from Rs 15,000 to Rs 50,000. These packages typically include additional services such as ambulances, body carriers, priests for rituals, and even airlifting bodies from other cities. However, the BNCC's complaint specifically targets the unauthorized markup of the basic crematorium booking fee.