The stamp duty and registration department has formulated new regulations aimed at curbing a worrying surge in fraudulent activities related to property transactions. These changes, as outlined in a recent official notice, primarily concern the authentication of individuals involved in property dealings and the inclusion of a mandatory declaration of birthmarks and other identifying marks on the body.
Key Changes
- Identification Details: During the property registration process, individuals will be asked to furnish details of their identification marks visible on their bodies. While providing this information is currently optional, it is strongly encouraged as it can significantly aid in verifying identity during the execution of the property deed.
- Increased Fraudulent Activities: The rise in property values has unfortunately corresponded with an increase in fraudulent transactions. There have been increasing complaints regarding irregularities in property documents, particularly involving individuals falsely claiming property ownership. In some instances, sub-registrars have faced legal action, with 15 cases filed against them and identifiers in the past year.
- Verification Measures: The department has already begun collecting photographs and thumb impressions of individuals registering documents to enhance the verification process for witnesses and identity documents. Additionally, mobile phone numbers and email addresses will now be required.
- Witness Restrictions: To further prevent fraud, an individual is now permitted to serve as a witness for only one document per day. This measure is designed to curtail the activities of unscrupulous agents who frequently act as witnesses without having proper knowledge of the parties involved in the transaction. Limitations have also been implemented in cases involving the registration of multiple documents simultaneously.