Chandrashekhar Bawankule Orders Probe Into Rs 20,000 Crore Stamp Duty Scam

Maharashtra Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule announced in the state assembly in Mumbai on Thursday that the state government has ordered an investigation into a major stamp duty scam. The scale of the irregularities is estimated to have caused losses to the state exchequer of between Rs 10,000 crore and Rs 20,000 crore.

The investigation will be conducted by a specialized task force operating under the state accountant general. This probe will systematically investigate stamp duty adjudication cases across Maharashtra that took place between the period of April 1, 2021, and March 31, 2026.

While addressing the state assembly, Bawankule explained that the government received reports of serious irregularities occurring during adjudication proceedings. According to the minister, stamp duty in these cases was allegedly assessed at higher values and subsequently reduced through the deliberate misuse of quasi-judicial powers.

Bawankule confirmed that the preliminary findings indicate a massive scale of fraud. "Preliminary indications suggest that irregularities amounting to between Rs 10,000 crore and Rs 20,000 crore may have occurred," he said.

The minister stated that the state government has taken serious note of these irregularities in stamp duty assessments and unauthorized property registrations. He emphasized that these actions have caused significant financial losses to the state. The minister further noted that the irregularities appear to have been carried out systematically and in collusion with vested interests.

Bawankule warned that any government officers found to be involved in the misconduct would face strict legal action and dismissal. He made it clear that complicit officials would not be spared.

"Officers involved in such serious misconduct have no place in public service. The government will pursue the strongest possible action against those found guilty," Bawankule added.