Haryana's collector rate hike sparks protests among property dealers in Sirsa

The state government's decision to increase collector rates, effective from December 1, has sparked protests among property dealers in Sirsa. The dealers argue the sudden implementation of the hike leaves little time for adjustment and complicates ongoing transactions.

On Wednesday, a group of property dealers, including Kamal Singla, Amar Singh Saini, Rinku Chhabra and others, submitted a memorandum to Deputy Commissioner Shantanu Sharma, addressed to the Haryana Chief Minister. In the memorandum, they requested an extension of the implementation deadline to January 1, 2025, to provide sufficient time for preparation.

The dealers pointed out many parties had already purchased stamp papers based on the old collector rates. The abrupt change, they argued, creates both financial and logistical challenges. Additionally, the discontinuation of the practice of making minor corrections on non-judicial stamps has further complicated matters.

According to the Revenue Department, the new collector rates, revised by 10-25 per cent, would remain in effect until March 2025. These rates, which apply to residential as well as commercial properties, are expected to generate increased revenue for the government. However, critics contend that such frequent hikes make it harder for middle and lower-income families to afford land for homes or businesses, as their budgets are severely impacted.

The dealers emphasised a notice period for the new rates would allow citizens to plan their property transactions more effectively. Deputy Commissioner Shantanu Sharma assured the delegation their concerns would be forwarded to the state government and efforts would be made to consider extending the deadline.

This year’s hike follows repeated delays in finalising the collector rates due to elections and other administrative hurdles. While the government views the increase as a necessary step to boost revenue, property dealers and the public are calling for a more balanced approach that considers the financial strain on ordinary citizens.