In a relief for families displaced by the Nagpur Smart City Project, the Maharashtra state cabinet has approved a major concession — slashing stamp duty on lease deeds for allotted flats to just ₹1,000 under the “Home Sweet Home” rehabilitation scheme.
The move is set to benefit economically weaker section (EWS) families who lost their homes to infrastructure developments like Smart City roads. Out of 200 flats in the project, 56 are reserved for EWS beneficiaries. So far, 28 families have already completed lease formalities, but under the old regime that demanded significantly higher stamp duty.
Now, a cloud of uncertainty hangs over these early beneficiaries. The cabinet resolution passed on May 13 makes no mention of refunds or reimbursements for those who already paid full stamp duty — leaving 26 families feeling unfairly penalized for being prompt.
“This decision is great for upcoming beneficiaries,” a Smart City official shared on condition of anonymity. “But we hope the government ensures justice for those who came forward early. We await guidance from the Revenue Department.”
Activists, too, are urging the state to treat all beneficiaries equally, past and future. Until further clarity is provided, the fate of the early leaseholders remains in limbo.
The stamp duty cut reflects the government’s larger commitment to affordable housing and fair rehabilitation — but true equity may depend on the next official circular.
👉 Click here to read the latest Gujarat news on TheLiveAhmedabad.com