The Karnataka Treasure Trove Act, 1962
The Karnataka Treasure Trove Act, 1962
The Karnataka Treasure Trove Act, 1962 regulates the reporting, ownership determination, division, and government acquisition of valuable items found hidden in the ground or attached to property within Karnataka. It applies to anyone who finds such treasure valued over ten rupees, as well as land owners, occupiers, and state administrative officials. Anyone who discovers hidden treasure must immediately notify the local Deputy Commissioner and deposit the items or provide security. The law establishes procedures to verify claims of ownership, divide the value fairly between finders and landowners, or allow the state to acquire historical items. It matters because it protects public heritage, prevents secret looting, and provides clear legal rewards for honest finders while penalizing non-disclosure.
Chapter I PRELIMINARY →
Chapter II NOTICE, ENQUIRY AND DECLARATION REGARDING TREASURE →
Chapter III DISPOSAL OF TREASURE DECLARED AS OWNERLESS →
- 9Proceedings subsequent to declaration.
- 10When no other person claims as owner of place, treasure to be given to finder
- 11When only one such person claims, and his claim is not disputed, treasure to be divided
- 12Stay of proceedings when ownership of place where treasure was found is in dispute
- 13Settlement of dispute and division of treasure.
- 14Division when value of treasure exceeds one lakh.
- 15Power to acquire the treasure on behalf of Government.
Chapter IV MISCELLANEOUS →
PDF: pending for this language.