Punjab's New Property Law: Tackling Illegal Colonies

Introduction and Background

• The Punjab State Assembly passed the Punjab Apartment and Property Regulation (Amendment) Act, 2024, on September 3, 2024.
• The amendment aims to control the spread of illegal colonies and provide relief to small plot holders.
• Punjab currently has over 14,000 unauthorized colonies.
• Previous governments have been accused of patronizing illegal colonizers, leading to the proliferation of these colonies.

Key Provisions of the Amendment

• Waives the requirement for No Objection Certificates (NOCs) for registering properties up to 500 square yards in unauthorized colonies.
• This waiver applies to properties purchased before July 31, 2024.
• Property owners can register their land until November 2, 2024, or a later date as notified by the state government.
• The amendment does not regularize entire illegal colonies, only individual plots.

Penalties and Deterrents

• Increases the fine for developing illegal colonies from Rs 25 lakh to Rs 5 crore.
• Introduces a minimum imprisonment term of five years, which can extend up to 10 years.
• These stricter penalties aim to deter the future development of unauthorized colonies.

Impact and Reactions

• Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann hailed the amendment as a "historic decision" for the common man's wellbeing.
• The law is expected to provide relief to millions who unknowingly invested in illegal colonies.
• It aims to overcome problems faced by the public in registering their plots and obtaining basic amenities.
• Some legislators, like SAD MLA Manpreet Singh Ayali, suggested quicker approvals for genuine colonizers to help check illegal developments.
• Finance Minister Harpal Singh Cheema views the amendment as a significant step towards improving Punjab's economy.