The Maharashtra government has ordered a high-level investigation into alleged large-scale irregularities in stamp duty adjudication, with the suspected revenue loss estimated between ₹10,000 crore and ₹20,000 crore. The probe aims to examine whether stamp duty assessments were deliberately reduced through the misuse of quasi-judicial powers, resulting in significant losses to the state exchequer.
Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule announced the inquiry in the Maharashtra Legislative Assembly, stating that reports of serious irregularities had prompted the government to initiate a comprehensive investigation. A task force under the state accountant general will review stamp duty adjudication cases handled across Maharashtra between April 1, 2021, and March 31, 2026.
According to the minister, preliminary findings indicate that substantial discrepancies may have occurred during the adjudication process, where stamp duty was initially assessed at higher values before being reduced through unauthorized or improper means. The government believes these actions may have been carried out systematically and in collusion with vested interests.
The investigation follows a case in Navi Mumbai that brought the issue into focus. During the Assembly session, MLA Jitendra Awhad highlighted allegations involving a senior clerk functioning as a stamp officer who reportedly processed and registered more than 800 documents within just ten days. The documents were allegedly linked to unauthorized constructions, resulting in an estimated stamp duty loss of approximately ₹13.9 crore.
An FIR has been registered at Turbhe Police Station in connection with the case, and the concerned official has been suspended. The state government is also examining legal provisions to pursue the officer’s dismissal from service.
Bawankule emphasized that officials found responsible for misconduct would face stringent action. In addition to departmental proceedings, criminal cases will be initiated against officers found to have exceeded their legal authority, misused official powers, or caused financial losses to the government.
To strengthen oversight and prevent similar incidents in the future, the Maharashtra government will introduce new standard operating procedures (SOPs) and detailed guidelines governing stamp duty adjudication. The revised framework is expected to improve transparency, accountability, and consistency in assessment procedures.
