The Jammu and Kashmir Real Estate Regulatory Authority (JKRERA) has put forward a proposal for the creation of a single window system aimed at facilitating integrated approvals and registrations, along with the formation of district-level enforcement cells to enhance the monitoring and enforcement of violations throughout the Union Territory.
RERA was enacted in Jammu and Kashmir in 2018, with its operations commencing in January 2024, to oversee and advance the real estate sector, ensure project transparency, safeguard consumer interests, and establish a mechanism for prompt dispute resolution.
“In order to tackle various challenges, JKRERA proposed on Monday a clearer definition of approval authorities in rural regions, the creation of a Single Window System for integrated approvals and registrations, and the establishment of district-level enforcement cells under the Deputy Commissioners to bolster monitoring, reporting, and enforcement of RERA violations,” stated a senior official.
These initiatives, according to the Authority, would guarantee a transparent, regulated, and well-planned development of the real estate sector in Jammu and Kashmir. The Authority is confronting fundamental issues related to approvals among different organizations, with non-compliance of the Act resulting in chaotic development, frequently lacking essential facilities and statutory protections required by law, as noted by the officer.
Officials have highlighted that the challenges encountered by the Authority include ambiguity concerning layout approvals for colonies in rural areas, delays stemming from the necessity of multiple departmental clearances, and the requirement for enhanced inter-departmental coordination.
Chairperson JKRERA Satish Chandra indicated that the Authority holds jurisdiction over all residential and commercial real estate projects within the Union Territory, including plotted developments that exceed 500 square meters or consist of eight apartments, as outlined in Section 3 of the Act.
He stated that it is compulsory for eligible real estate projects and agents to register with JKRERA, and no promoter is allowed to advertise, market, or sell any project without first obtaining this registration. He further noted that the Act protects the rights of homebuyers and requires developers to provide necessary infrastructure and facilities to prevent unplanned and substandard development.
Officials from the Authority mentioned that any affected individual, including allottees, promoters, and agents, has the right to file complaints under Section 31 of the Act through both online and offline channels. “JKRERA has the authority to conduct investigations and recover penalties as arrears of land revenue in instances of non-compliance,” they remarked.
The Act imposes strict penalties, which may include fines of up to 10 percent of the project cost and imprisonment for promoters who violate regulations such as failing to register projects or not adhering to the directives of the Authority or the Appellate Tribunal.
Chief Secretary Atal Dulloo previously emphasized the necessity of enhancing enforcement mechanisms to guarantee transparency, accountability, and the safeguarding of homebuyers’ interests within the real estate sector throughout the UT.
He urged the divisional and district administrations to provide all essential support for the effective execution of the Act in both urban and rural settings. Additionally, the Jammu and Kashmir housing and urban development department has instructed all administrative secretaries, department heads, and managing directors of public sector undertakings and corporations to ensure that all new and ongoing real estate projects are registered with RERA prior to the initiation of any work.
