In a decisive step to curb black money and increase transparency in real estate, the Government of India now mandates PAN card verification as a compulsory requirement for registering land or property.
What’s New?
- A valid PAN card (Permanent Account Number) is now mandatory for both the buyer and seller before any land registration process can begin.
- Registrars have been strictly directed not to proceed with any land or property registration without verifying the authenticity of the PAN card.
Why the Government Introduced This Rule
- Crack down on black money: The new rule aims to eliminate cash-based, off-the-books property dealings and discourage benami (proxy) ownership.
- Fair and transparent transactions: Connecting property transactions to PAN details helps build a centralized digital database, enabling better regulatory oversight and tax compliance.
Key Documents Required (Now Mandatory)
To facilitate land registration under the new guidelines, ensure you have the following:
| Required Documents |
|---|
| PAN Card of both buyer and seller |
| Aadhaar Card or other valid ID proof |
| Land details (e.g., Khasra number, Khatauni, land map) |
| Sale agreement between buyer and seller |
| Tax payment slips, if applicable |
| Passport-sized photographs of both parties |
Where and How Is It Being Implemented?
- The new PAN-based verification protocol has been implemented nationwide.
- State governments have issued directives to their respective land registration authorities to adopt this requirement immediately.
What Does This Mean for You?
- Pros: Greater transparency, minimized tax evasion, and fewer benami property cases.
- Action Required: If you’re buying or selling property, ensure both parties have PAN cards (and all other documents) ready before heading to the registration office.
Expert Tip
Always check with your local land registration office or state’s property registry website for any additional state-specific guidelines or document requirements to avoid delays.
Final Thoughts
This change marks a substantial step toward reforming the real estate sector by ensuring accountability and integrity in property transactions. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned investor, being proactive with the required documentation—especially the PAN card—will help make your land registration process smooth and compliant.
