Key Points
- Centre drafts bill to overhaul 117-year-old Registration Act for property transactions
- Online property registration and digital document security to become mandatory
- Aadhaar-based verification proposed, with optional alternatives for privacy
- Draft bill covers compulsory registration of key property documents
- Public feedback invited on the proposed changes
New Delhi: The central government is gearing up for a landmark reform in property registration, aiming to modernize and digitize the process across India. The Modi government has prepared a draft bill that seeks to make online registration of property compulsory and ensure the digital security of property documents.
Why the Change?
The move comes as the government looks to replace the archaic 117-year-old Registration Act, which currently governs property registration nationwide. While states have the power to amend the Act and some have already enabled online registration, there is no uniform system. The Centre’s new bill aims to establish a comprehensive, future-ready law that will be implemented uniformly across all states.
What’s in the Draft Bill?
1. Mandatory Online Registration
- All property documents including Agreement to Sell, Sale Certificate, Power of Attorney, and Equitable Mortgage will require compulsory online registration.
- This will streamline the registration process, reduce paperwork, and help curb property fraud.
2. Aadhaar-Based Verification
- The draft proposes an Aadhaar-based verification system to authenticate parties involved in property transactions.
- For those concerned about privacy, an optional verification facility will be available, allowing alternatives to sharing Aadhaar details.
- This step is aimed at minimizing fraud and ensuring the legitimacy of transactions.
3. Digital Certificates and E-Records
- The government plans to issue electronic registration certificates and maintain digital records of all property transactions.
- The entire process, including document presentation and registration, will be possible through e-platforms.
Public Consultation and Next Steps
The Land Resources Department under the Ministry of Rural Development has released the draft bill for public opinion, inviting suggestions and feedback from citizens, experts, and stakeholders. The department emphasized that the increasing use of technology, greater reliance on registered documents, and evolving socio-economic trends necessitate a modern and secure registration system.
What This Means for Property Owners and Buyers
- Faster, more transparent property transactions
- Reduced risk of document forgery and fraud
- Uniform law and process across all Indian states
- Greater convenience through digital platforms
If implemented, these changes will revolutionize property registration in India, making it more secure, transparent, and efficient. The government is seeking public feedback before moving forward so now is the time to share your views on the future of property laws in India!
