The Odisha government is gearing up to amend key real estate laws to streamline the registration process for sale deeds, with a focus on addressing current bottlenecks that have hindered property transactions. Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Pujari confirmed that changes would be made to the Odisha Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act of 2016 and the Odisha Apartment (Ownership and Management) Act of 2023, along with other related legislation. This reform aims to facilitate smoother registration processes for both land and apartment sales.
The issue stems from procedural roadblocks in the current system, which has led to delays in sale deed registration for plots and apartments. According to Pujari, the government is not only concerned about the inconvenience faced by citizens but also the significant revenue losses from stamp duty and registration fees. During a recent stakeholder meeting, the need for reforms became evident, and it was decided that amendments would be made swiftly to address these issues.
The obstacles in sale deed registration were highlighted in 2022 when the Orissa High Court intervened, directing the Inspector General of Revenue to ensure adherence to all rules at the sub-registrar level. While the Odisha Apartment (Ownership and Management) Act of 2023 had resumed registrations in May 2024, many apartments still face challenges due to the lack of an occupancy certificate and an association of allottees’ certificate, which are now mandatory. This requirement has resulted in a significant backlog, affecting the property market’s fluidity.
Experts like real estate consultant Bimalendu Pradhan have urged the government to consider a regularisation scheme for existing buildings, which would remove many of the hurdles in the registration process. Additionally, the government’s plan to amend the rules offers a chance to incorporate sustainability into property development practices. By encouraging streamlined regulations, the amendments could support more eco-friendly construction projects in the future, aligning urban growth with environmental goals.
