The Supreme Court today (Jan7th) of India clarified the procedure for addressing property undervaluation under the Indian Stamp Act, 1899. It ruled that the Registering Authority must provide valid reasons before referring cases to the Special Deputy Collector (Stamps) and give parties the chance to present their case, emphasizing proper inquiry protocols.
On March 7, 2023, the Madras High Court upheld a 2017 directive to reduce property guideline values by 33%, dismissing the government’s attempt to revert to 2012 values for stamp duty and registration charges. The court emphasized the need for proper procedures in revising values, directing adherence to the 2017 decision until a lawful update. No refunds for transactions using 2012 valuations were granted during the interim period.