Stamp Duty Hiked in Madhya Pradesh: Affidavits to Cost ₹200, Property Agreements ₹5000.......

Bhopal: The Madhya Pradesh government has significantly increased stamp duties on various legal documents. The revised rates, approved under the Indian Stamp (Madhya Pradesh Amendment) Bill 2025, were passed in the state assembly on Wednesday. Key changes include:

• Affidavits will now require a Rs.200 stamp instead of Rs.50. 

• Immovable property agreements will attract Rs.5,000, up from Rs.1,000. 

• Consent deeds and corrections to registered documents will also cost Rs.5,000 (previously Rs.1,000).

Other Key Revisions:

• Arms license fees for revolvers/pistols doubled to Rs.10,000 (renewal up from Rs.2,000 to Rs.5,000).

• Power of attorney (single transaction) now costs Rs.2,000 (previously Rs.1,000).

• Partnership deeds will require Rs.5,000 stamps (up from Rs.2,000).

Additional Bills Passed:

Opposition Congress alleges the move will fuel corruption, claiming "collected taxes are misused." The debate underscores growing tensions over fiscal policies in the state. The Congress party strongly opposed the bill, staging a walkout during the debate. Leader of Opposition Umang Singhar accused the government of burdening the public, calling it "revenue greed and exploitation." In response, Deputy CM Jagdish Devda defended the hike, stating that SC, ST, and OBC communities remain exempt from affidavit stamp duties and that the rates were last revised 11 years ago. The hikes aim to modernize revenue structures and simplify processes. Devda emphasized that GST-related penalties will now allow appeals upon depositing 10% of the fine, easing litigation burdens.

1. MP Goods and Services Tax (Amendment) Bill 2025: Eliminates the "de-margining" process for mortgaged properties, reducing bureaucratic hurdles.

2. MP Mediation Agency (Amendment) Bill 2025: Streamlines appointments and service conditions for mediation agencies.

3. Legal Aid Repeal Bill 2025: Scraps redundant provisions for weaker sections, as existing authorities already address legal aid.