Major Stamp Duty Relief for Mohali Cooperative Housing Societies
Flat owners in Mohali's cooperative housing societies have received significant financial relief. The Punjab government has implemented a substantial stamp duty reduction of up to 7%. This move directly benefits members of 24 cooperative housing societies and more than 7,000 flat owners across the city.
Government Notification Triggers Initial Concerns
The relief follows a Punjab government notification issued on December 20, 2025. This notification made registration mandatory for all cooperative housing societies registered under the Punjab Cooperative Societies Act, 1961. They must now register their immovable property, including plots and flats, with the revenue department under the Registration Act, 1908.
While original allottees received full exemption from stamp duty if they completed registration within 90 days, subsequent allottees faced different rules. They were required to pay 50% duty within 120 days. This requirement created widespread concern among residents who found the financial burden too heavy.
Revised Notification Brings Substantial Relaxation
Residents raised the issue with the state government, leading to positive action. The government issued a revised notification on January 12, 2026. This new notification grants substantial relaxation for subsequent buyers, dramatically reducing their financial obligations.
Under the revised structure, owners registering their properties by January 31, 2026, will pay only 1% stamp duty. This represents a massive reduction from previous requirements. Registrations completed between February 1 and February 28 will attract 2% duty. Those between March 1 and March 31 will be charged 3%. After March 31, full applicable stamp duty will apply as per standard regulations.
Additional Exemptions and Financial Benefits
The relief extends beyond just stamp duty reductions. Cooperative society flat owners have also received exemptions from SIC, PIDB and SIDF charges. These exemptions further reduce the overall financial burden on residents. The 1% registration fee, however, will continue to apply according to existing rules.
Officials stated that the combined relief measures are expected to significantly reduce financial pressure on residents. They also believe these changes will expedite long-pending registrations that have been delayed due to cost concerns.
Political Response and Further Recommendations
Following the announcement, representatives from several cooperative housing societies met with Mohali MLA Kulwant Singh. They acknowledged the relief extended by the government and expressed their appreciation for the intervention.
MLA Kulwant Singh made additional recommendations to ensure smooth implementation. He stated he would request that applicants who purchase stamp duty certificates and submit documents to the sub-registrar by January 31 should continue to be charged 1% duty. This protection would apply even if registration is completed later due to administrative delays beyond their control.
The MLA also suggested practical solutions for potential bureaucratic hurdles. In cases where societies delay issuing mandatory NDCs or NOCs, he recommended that the cooperation department appoint special registrars. These appointments would ensure timely processing and prevent unnecessary delays for flat owners.
A Step Toward Easing Middle-Class Challenges
The revised notification is being viewed as a major step toward easing registration-related challenges. Middle-class homebuyers in Mohali have particularly struggled with property registration costs. This intervention addresses their concerns directly and makes home ownership more accessible.
The phased approach to stamp duty rates provides clear deadlines and incentives for timely registration. Owners who act quickly receive the maximum benefit, while those who register later still receive substantial savings compared to previous requirements.
This policy change demonstrates responsive governance that addresses citizen concerns. By listening to residents and adjusting regulations accordingly, the Punjab government has provided meaningful relief to thousands of flat owners in Mohali's cooperative housing societies.
