Lokmat News Network
Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar:
The Department of Stamps and Registry at the District Collector’s office, already surrounded by allegations of brokerage and bribery, faced further embarrassment on Tuesday following an unusual protest. The department has previously been criticised for registry registrations based on bogus documents, violations of the Fragmentation Act, and undervaluation of property during registration.
A private individual frequently seen in the office, Abulala Hashmi, created a commotion after he occupied the chair of sub-registrar Rajesh Rathod and attempted to carry out registry registrations. Rathod had suddenly gone on leave, and there was a delay in handing over his charge. As a result, no official was present in his seat until 10.45 am. Taking advantage of the situation, Hashmi sat in the chair claiming that the public had resolved to appoint him and that he would process registrations for everyone.
The information quickly spread across the Stamp Department and the revenue administration. District collector Deelip Swami immediately ordered the suspension of the employee responsible and directed deputy sub-registrar Vivek Gangurde to take action.
After the incident at 10.45 am, all stamp registration offices in the collectorate premises were shut from 11 am. The two offices at Beed Bypass were also closed, and staff gathered to file a police complaint. Citizens who had come for registrations were left stranded, raising slogans against the Stamp Office.
Protesters alleged organised crime within the department and demanded an inquiry into the assets of all employees. Around 250 documents were not registered that day, resulting in an estimated revenue loss of Rs 1 to Rs 1.5 crore. A police complaint was being filed, but no case had been registered until late evening.