Action to Be Taken on Fake Deed Registration Cases

The Department of Registration is gearing up to issue strict orders concerning the increasing instances of fake deed registrations. It has been mandated that both parties must appear before the sub-registrar's office when buying or selling property.

Additionally, during the registration process, photos of both parties and their fingerprints will be taken using a webcam. This procedure also applies to witnesses. Despite these measures, there is still a need for caution when buying property.

Incidents of selling already sold land using fake documents and affixing fake photos through impersonation are rampant. This leaves property owners, who have worked hard to acquire their assets, in a difficult situation.

Even when victims of land fraud file complaints at the registration office, significant action is seldom taken. The officials conducting the investigation, despite identifying fake documents, often do not support the affected parties. They typically suggest victims seek court orders to cancel fake deeds, as they claim not to have the authority to do so themselves. Police officials also tend to avoid filing FIRs against those involved in land fraud.

However, these outdated procedures are now being reformed. The registration department has been granted full authority to file police complaints regarding fake deeds.

A recent ruling by judges in a civil case at the Madurai High Court Bench highlighted this additional authority. Following this ruling, the Registration Department in Puducherry has sent a file to the Revenue Department to make decisions regarding fake and fraudulent deed registrations.

Investigation Procedure:

Henceforth, if a complaint about a fake deed is lodged, the District Registrar will directly investigate. Summons will be issued to both parties involved. Upon their appearance, the Village Administrative Officer (VAO) and Surveyor will assist in examining the property documents.

The investigation will be expedited. If the document is found to be fake, a separate order will be issued, and a distinct entry will be made in the records. Furthermore, the police will be formally recommended to file an FIR against those involved in land fraud and fake deed registrations. Sub-registrars will also be directed to maintain separate records of such documents in the registration offices.

Hope:

The granting of additional powers to the Registration Department has instilled hope among the affected individuals. It is expected that land fraud cases will now be handled more efficiently within the Registration Department.