The state on Thursday introduced e-registration of property documents so that a part of the registration process, including verification of documents and payment of stamp duty, can be done online from home.
The move is aimed at reopening revenue channels for the government that has become cash starved following the lockdown. It has offered a discount in registration fee for those who undertake this before May 31.
Developers said it could help them register agreements of sale for deals concluded prior to lockdown so that they could collect payments from customers. Also, developers who have completed projects but were unable to hand over the property to customers despite completion certificate can now register the sale deed.
Chief secretary Rajiva Sinha said, “This is an emergency situation and considering the urgency of property registration the state will start the e-registration process where the people can submit their entire e-deed online and they will be provided with a provisional digital certificate. This certificate will be valid everywhere.”
To complete the biometric identification required to complete the registration process, people will have to visit the registration office after the lockdown is withdrawn. Sources said in case of bulk deed, an official from the registration directorate would visit the appointed location of the location of registrants to complete the process and deliver the deeds. The state cabinet also decided to give a reduction of 20% registration fees with a ceiling of Rs 20,000 to people who will avail of this new system till May 31.
Nandu Belani, president of Credai Bengal, said the move would help cash-strapped developers to also collect funds. Credai West Bengal president Sushil Mohta called for greater awareness about the e-registration process.
