BNCC alerts citizens after unauthorised websites allegedly collect excess fees for electric crematorium slot bookings in Bengaluru and registers a cybercrime case
The Bengaluru North City Corporation (BNCC) has registered a cyber crime case after detecting unauthorised websites and intermediaries allegedly charging excess amounts for electric crematorium slot bookings. The civic body has clarified that the official cremation fee is ₹250 and urged citizens to use only verified government portals for bookings. Authorities have launched an investigation into the fraudulent activities.
Bengaluru: The Bengaluru North City Corporation (BNCC) has initiated strict action against fraudulent online platforms and intermediaries allegedly involved in collecting excess charges for electric crematorium slot bookings in the city.
The civic body has confirmed that a case has been registered with the Cyber Crime Police Station, North-East Division, Yelahanka, following complaints that unauthorised websites are misleading citizens and charging additional fees for cremation services.
The issue has raised serious concerns over digital fraud targeting grieving families seeking last rites services.
BNCC Flags Fraudulent Crematorium Booking Practices
According to BNCC, two electric crematoriums under its jurisdiction are operating with a transparent and fixed fee structure.
The facilities include:
- Chirashanthidhama Electric Crematorium, Hebbal Kempapura
- Muktidhama Electric Crematorium, Medi Agrahara
Officials stated that the officially fixed cremation charge is ₹250, as approved by the Greater Bengaluru Authority.
However, certain unauthorized platforms and intermediaries have reportedly been charging higher amounts by falsely presenting themselves as official booking service providers.
Excess Charges and Misleading Online Platforms Under Scrutiny
BNCC has alleged that these fraudulent websites and agents are exploiting citizens by creating confusion around online slot booking systems.
Families seeking cremation services are reportedly being redirected to unofficial portals where additional charges are being levied without authorization.
Officials have termed this practice a serious violation, especially considering the sensitive nature of cremation services.
“Citizens are advised not to approach any unauthorized websites or agents for crematorium bookings,” BNCC stated in its advisory.
Cyber Crime Case Registered and Investigation Underway
In response to these allegations, BNCC has filed a formal complaint with the Cyber Crime Police Station in the North-East Division of Yelahanka.
A case has been registered under GSC No. P02260260600120, and investigations are currently underway against suspected websites, intermediaries and individuals involved in the fraud.
Authorities are examining digital transactions, online platforms and communication channels used to mislead citizens.
Official Booking Platforms Notified for Public Use
BNCC has urged citizens to use only official government platforms for crematorium slot booking to avoid financial exploitation and misinformation.
The officially approved booking portals include:
- https://apps.bbmpgov.in/crematorium/forms/onlinebookingfrm.aspx
- https://site.bbmp.gov.in/onlinecrematoriumprocessflow.html
Officials have emphasized that these are the only authorized systems for booking electric crematorium services under civic administration.
Public Advisory Issued to Prevent Further Fraud
BNCC has appealed to residents to remain cautious and vigilant while accessing online cremation services.
Citizens have been advised to immediately report any suspicious websites, agents or financial demands related to crematorium bookings to the civic body or cybercrime authorities.
The corporation has stated that strict action will continue against those exploiting vulnerable citizens during emotionally sensitive situations such as funeral arrangements.
Authorities reiterated their commitment to ensuring transparent, affordable and dignified last rites services across Bengaluru.
