NEW DELHI: The ownership rights for houses in unauthorized colonies may soon shift from the Delhi Development Authority (DDA) to the Delhi government, according to officials.
The initiative, launched by DDA in 2019 as part of the PM-Unauthorized Colonies in Delhi Awas Adhikar Yojana (PM-UDAY), has been a critical policy decision for residents of these colonies, who previously lacked ownership rights.
According to the proposal, the Delhi government’s urban development department will oversee this process to simplify operations and reduce the number of involved agencies. “Although the transition was initially set for April 1, it is currently under legal scrutiny as many land issues still involve the DDA,” an official commented.
This scheme allows house owners to obtain ownership or mortgage rights in 1,731 unauthorized colonies, serving an estimated population of 4 million. Officials indicated that implementation will follow an “as is where is” principle.
If the handover occurs, the urban development department will manage the regularization, while the Municipal Corporation of Delhi will ensure compliance with building regulations.
Sources noted that this shift is also significant in light of the upcoming municipal elections next year. Post-transfer, elected representatives are expected to play a more prominent role in liaising with residents and applicants, potentially expediting property registrations in these areas.
Currently, applications are processed online via the DDA’s website or a mobile app, requiring documents like registered sale deeds, power of attorney, sale agreements, payment receipts, and proof of possession. This scheme pertains to colonies established by 2019, covering both private and government land.
To address issues and enhance process efficiency, the DDA has been hosting public hearings at various locations, allowing applicants to voice their concerns. However, responses have been less than enthusiastic.
As of August 2, 2025, the DDA had received 132,000 applications, processing 131,000 of them. To date, 34,858 conveyance deeds or authorization slips granting ownership rights have been issued, while 37,195 applications were rejected or considered ineligible.
