The delay in uploading 20 years of legacy data onto the National Generic Document Registration System (NGDRS) portal in Jammu and Kashmir is symptomatic of broader inefficiencies in the Department of Registration. Despite the promises made in March 2023, the much-needed digitisation of legacy records remains pending. This issue, compounded by the ad hoc functioning of most Sub-Registrar offices, reflects a concerning lack of focus on administrative reform in an area crucial for public convenience and transparency. The Department of Registration was established following the reorganisation of J&K in 2019, but it appears to be struggling with the transition from judicial to civil administration in managing registrations. The introduction of NGDRS for document registration was an important step towards modernising the process, bringing much-needed efficiency and transparency. However, the failure to integrate pre-2019 legacy data has left citizens in a lurch. Many individuals are unable to access older records, hindering legal proceedings, property transfers, and other transactions that require historical data verification. This is a critical shortfall in a system that was envisioned to be inclusive and seamless.
The process to address this gap-scanning, digitising, and uploading legacy data-has stalled, reportedly due to delays in securing administrative approvals and finalising a DPR. These bureaucratic hurdles, coupled with the Finance Department’s raised queries, are slowing down a process that was promised to be completed within six months. Time is slipping away, and the lack of a clear timeframe for resuming this vital exercise is disheartening. Furthermore, the ad hoc nature of the majority of Sub-Registrar offices adds to the operational difficulties. Many posts are currently managed by Sub-Divisional Magistrates or Assistant Commissioners of Revenue holding additional charges, resulting in inconsistent service delivery. Given the importance of land registration and the growing demands on these offices, it is important to appoint full-time, regular Sub-Registrars, especially in key districts and high-demand sub-divisions. With modern safety systems and accessible online services, J&K has the potential to streamline its registration services and improve the citizen experience.
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