Mumbai, June 25: The Maharashtra government has ordered a comprehensive investigation into stamp duty adjudication cases across the state through a Special Task Force under the Accountant General (AG). Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule announced in the Legislative Assembly that all adjudication cases processed between April 1, 2021, and March 31, 2026, will be examined to detect irregularities and prevent misuse of quasi-judicial powers.
Responding to a question raised by MLA Jitendra Awhad, the minister said the probe follows allegations of illegal registration of documents related to unauthorized buildings in Navi Mumbai, resulting in significant revenue losses for the state.
According to Bawankule, a senior clerk functioning as a Stamp Officer allegedly registered over 800 property documents within just 10 days, violating provisions of the Maharashtra Regional and Town Planning (MRTP) Act, 1966, and the Indian Stamp Act, 1908. The alleged irregularities caused an estimated ₹13.99 crore loss to the state exchequer.
An FIR has been registered at Turbhe Police Station, and the concerned officer has been suspended. The government is now examining legal provisions to dismiss the official from service permanently. The minister alleged that the fraudulent registrations were carried out in collusion with builders.
Bawankule further said investigations have revealed instances where officials allegedly misused the adjudication process by imposing higher stamp duty initially and later reducing it without justification. To prevent such malpractice, the state government will issue a new Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) and Government Resolution governing adjudication proceedings.
The AG’s office will constitute a dedicated Special Task Force for the investigation, with the Maharashtra government providing the required manpower and financial support. The minister said the probe could expose irregularities involving ₹10,000 crore to ₹20,000 crore.
Warning officials against misuse of quasi-judicial powers, Bawankule said any officer found acting beyond the legal framework under the Stamp Act would face criminal prosecution under the new guidelines.
