LUCKNOW: On Tuesday, the Cabinet made a significant decision regarding property sales registration, mandating the stamp and registration department to verify property ownership details prior to registration.
Ravindra Jaiswal, the Minister of State (Independent) for Stamp and Registration, stated that new rules will soon be established to require verification of ‘khatauni’ (land records) and ownership documents before registration, aiming to eliminate fraudulent or contested land registrations.
“We have encountered multiple instances where properties are sold by individuals who are not the legitimate owners, including prohibited or restricted properties, properties sold beyond legal ownership rights, and even those owned by the government. These situations often lead to disputes and prolonged legal battles for the public,” he explained.
Currently, sub-registrars have limited authority under Section 35 of the Registration Act, 1908, which sometimes allows for suspicious registrations. The proposed reforms intend to enhance their powers.
The suggested amendments include allowing restrictions under Section 22-A on specific document registrations. Section 22-B would require proper identification of immovable property before registration, while Section 35-A(1) provides that if necessary ownership papers are missing, the registration officer can refuse the registration.
“Once these changes take effect, they will effectively prevent the registration of fake and disputed properties. Similar legislative changes have been made in other states to address these issues. After Cabinet approval, the bill will be presented to the state legislature for further consideration,” Jaiswal added.
