Punjab Government Provides Temporary Relief for Plot Owners in Unauthorized Colonies
The Punjab government has taken a significant step towards addressing the long-standing issue of unauthorized colonies in the state. In a recent notification, the government has allowed plot owners with properties up to 500 square yards in such colonies to register their plots without the need for a No Objection Certificate (NOC). This move comes as a temporary relief for residents who have been eagerly awaiting a resolution to their registration woes.
Eligibility Guidelines and Conditions for Plot Owners
Under this new notification, plot owners who have legal agreements such as power of attorney or sale agreements executed by July 31, 2024, are deemed eligible for registration during a 90-day window. This provision aims to include genuine property owners and provide them with a chance to secure their plots.
However, it is important to note that there are certain conditions for eligibility. Plots located in restricted areas, along scheduled roads, highways, or those violating regional/master plans, as well as those encroaching on public land, are deemed ineligible for registration under this notification. These conditions ensure that the regularization process remains within the framework of governing laws and regulations.
Exclusion of Unauthorized Colonies Developers
While the notification brings relief to plot owners, no respite has been provided to developers of unauthorized colonies. As a result, they are still accountable for the legal consequences arising from their involvement in such unauthorized projects. This reaffirms the government’s commitment to curbing the proliferation of illegal constructions and addressing structural irregularities in the real estate sector.
Unresolved Issues and Concerns
While the notification offers temporary clarity and possibilities for plot owners, it raises various questions and concerns that require further elaboration. One such concern is the status of plots registered prior to this notification. It is of paramount importance to determine whether these plots would be treated in the same way as those registered during the newly specified time frame.
Another crucial question relates to the requirement of NOCs after the 90-day registration period. Will plot owners still need to obtain NOCs for building plans and electricity connections? Adequate guidance and measures from the concerned authorities should be provided to mitigate any confusion and ensure a smooth registration process.
Stakeholder Reactions and Officials’ Clarifications
Upon review of the notification, Gurwinder Singh Lamba, president of the Punjab Colonisers and Property Dealers Association, expressed disappointment at the lack of clarity. He highlighted the absence of information regarding procedures following the expiration of the registration window, as well as the terms for selling plots registered during this period.
In response to these concerns, Mohan Singh, MC Assistant Town Planner, clarified that the notification only applies to unregistered plots. This ensures that previously registered plots remain unaffected by this temporary relief measure. Furthermore, Singh emphasized that if the government intended to revise or change existing registrations, it would have explicitly mentioned such provisions in the notification.
The Way Forward
While there are still some unresolved issues and concerns surrounding the Punjab government’s notification, authorities expect to provide further clarifications as the registration process begins. Plot owners are urged to take advantage of the stipulated 90-day window to secure their property registrations.
This temporary relief is a step forward in addressing the long-standing issue of unregistered plots in unauthorized colonies. By facilitating the regularization process for eligible plot owners, the government aims to bring about a sense of security and legitimacy to the residents of these colonies. It also underscores the government’s commitment to promoting transparency and legality in the real estate sector.
As the registration process commences, it remains crucial for the Punjab government to regularly update and guide plot owners through the requirements and procedures. Through effective coordination and communication between stakeholders, a comprehensive and simplified system of registration can be established, providing a lasting solution to the issue of unauthorized colonies in Punjab.
