Ghaziabad | Acting on suspected large-scale financial irregularities in property registrations, the Income Tax Department conducted a survey at the Sub-Registrar-1 office in the city. Preliminary findings indicate possible discrepancies in transactions worth nearly ₹3,700 crore, prompting a detailed investigation.
According to sources, the team reached the office in the afternoon and carried out an extensive examination of digital records for several hours. During the operation, registry documents, financial transaction data, and related entries were closely scrutinized. Investigators reportedly found multiple instances where PAN numbers were either incorrectly दर्जed or completely missing, despite being mandatory for such transactions.
Initial findings also revealed inconsistencies between registry data and the ‘Statement of Financial Transactions’ (SFT). In several cases, the reported figures did not match the actual entries in documents, raising suspicion of deliberate manipulation. Authorities are now probing whether these discrepancies were due to negligence or intentional attempts to gain undue benefits.
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As per standard procedure, sub-registrar offices are required to compile and submit detailed transaction data in a prescribed format, which is then uploaded on designated portals under technical monitoring. The probe has flagged lapses in reporting under Forms 61 and 61A, both crucial for tracking high-value financial transactions.
Sources indicated that notices had previously been issued to address such irregularities, but corrective measures were either inadequate or not implemented. With significant discrepancies now coming to light, the scope of the investigation is likely to widen, and the total amount under suspicion may increase further.
The investigation has primarily focused on transactions from the financial years 2022–23 and 2023–24. During these periods, all property deals exceeding ₹30 lakh were required to be reported with complete details on official platforms. However, local officials have argued that PAN verification does not fall directly under the registry office’s responsibility and is handled through a separate technical system.
At present, the Income Tax Department has taken possession of the digital records and initiated a deeper analysis. Based on the findings, notices may be issued to concerned parties, and further action could follow if violations are established.
The development underscores increasing scrutiny over property transactions and compliance standards. Authorities appear to be tightening oversight, especially in high-value deals, where accurate PAN details and financial disclosures are critical to ensuring transparency and preventing misuse of the system.
About the author — Suvedita Nath is a science student with a growing interest in cybercrime and digital safety. She writes on online activity, cyber threats, and technology-driven risks. Her work focuses on clarity, accuracy, and public awareness.
