Mohali MLA Kulwant Singh has warmly welcomed a significant decision by the Punjab government. The state has dramatically reduced stamp duty for property buyers. The rate has been slashed from 8 percent to just 1 percent. This reduced rate will remain effective until January 31.
Major Relief for Common People
Kulwant Singh highlighted the importance of this move during a press conference on Thursday. He explained that previously, only the first property registration was free. Second, third, and subsequent registrations attracted a hefty 8 percent stamp duty. This high cost made property registration extremely difficult for ordinary citizens.
"This made property registration extremely difficult for common people," the MLA stated, emphasizing the relief the new policy provides.
Phased Increase in Stamp Duty
The MLA provided clear details about the future schedule for stamp duty rates. The 1 percent rate is valid only until January 31, 2026.
- From February 1 to February 28, 2026, the stamp duty will increase to 2 percent.
- From March 1 to March 31, 2026, it will rise further to 3 percent.
- After March 31, 2026, the full stamp duty as per existing rules will apply again.
He also gave an important assurance to buyers. Anyone who purchases the required stamp papers before the January 31 deadline can complete their registration later. They will still benefit from the 1 percent rate.
Additional Financial Benefits
The government has granted full exemptions from other charges. Buyers will not have to pay SIC, PIDB, or SIDF fees. However, the standard registration fee of 1 percent will still apply as per the rules.
Addressing NOC Delays from Cooperative Societies
MLA Kulwant Singh addressed a common concern for residents. He talked about potential delays in obtaining No Objection Certificates (NOCs) from cooperative housing societies.
He gave a firm assurance to the people of Mohali. If any cooperative society unjustly delays issuing an NOC, the government will step in. After a waiting period of three to four months, special registrars will be appointed. The government will then complete the registration process on its own.
"No inconvenience will be caused to the people," he stressed confidently.
Context of Mohali's Housing Landscape
Singh provided context about the local housing market. He noted that around 25 cooperative societies operate in Mohali. These societies comprise between 5,000 to 7,000 houses. Nearly 30,000 to 35,000 families reside in these cooperative housing projects.
MLA on Local Infrastructure and Elections
During the conference, the MLA also commented on local infrastructure issues. He clarified that a specific rainwater pipeline project connecting several sectors was not executed by the Mayor or Deputy Mayor. He stated that residents brought the problem to him, and he directed officers to start the work promptly.
"The people of Mohali know very well who got the work done," he remarked. "As elected representatives, our priority is to resolve people's problems without discrimination. Taking credit is not important, what matters is delivering results."
When asked about the upcoming Mohali Municipal Corporation elections, Singh shared his expectation. He said there is a strong possibility the elections will be held between late February and early March. However, he clarified that the final decision rests with the state government.