The recent malfunction of the Government’s registration software in Jammu and Kashmir has created a significant disruption in property transactions, affecting hundreds of crores of deals and causing considerable inconvenience to the people. Since January 2024, the updated software has been unable to attach previously paid stamp duty on the power of attorney documents to new sale deeds, leading to a backlog of over 1500 pending property registrations and significant delays in the transfer of land and immovable property. This procedural glitch is not only a source of frustration for the citizens but also a major impediment to the Government’s revenue generation through stamp duty. As per Section 18C of the Jammu and Kashmir Stamp Act 1977, the duty on the sale deed should be adjusted to account for the duty already paid. This provision was effectively implemented until December 2023. However, the latest software update has inexplicably nullified this crucial functionality, creating a legal and administrative deadlock.
Despite numerous representations and appeals to the Revenue Department and other concerned authorities, no effective action has been taken to resolve the issue. The Inspector General of Registration, the Sub-Registrar, and the Special Secretary of Revenue have all been apprised of the problem, yet the necessary software fix remains elusive. The matter is reportedly pending final approval from the Revenue Secretary. The current situation demands immediate intervention from the highest levels of the administration, as this is not merely a technical glitch but a significant procedural failure that is causing financial losses and legal complications for countless individuals. Timely resolution of this issue is paramount to streamline property dealings, restore public confidence, and prevent further loss of revenue. The Government must prioritise this matter and expedite the necessary software updates so that the provisions of the J&K Stamp Act are fully upheld and citizens can conduct their property transactions without unnecessary delays and complications. All necessary precautions must be taken for the future software update process to prevent such issues from recurring.
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