Authorities in Bengaluru have launched a formal investigation into several fraudulent websites that were exploiting grieving families by charging exorbitant fees for cremation services. While the Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) officially charges a nominal fee of Rs250 for the use of its electric crematoriums, these predatory operators were reportedly demanding between Rs3,000 and Rs5,000 per booking. After receiving multiple complaints from families who were coerced into paying these inflated amounts, the Bengaluru North City Corporation (BNCC) filed a cybercrime case to shut down the illegal portals and has urged the public to exclusively use official government websites for scheduling.

This incident highlights a broader national push toward modernizing and regulating funeral services, as major cities across India adopt more sustainable and affordable practices. Both Delhi and Pune have recently introduced initiatives to promote electric and CNG-based cremations to combat air pollution and save natural resources like wood. By offering free or subsidized services and implementing tech-driven solutions such as QR-code booking systems, municipal bodies are working to make end-of-life care both environmentally friendly and accessible, ultimately protecting vulnerable citizens from being overcharged by unauthorized third-party services.