Odisha Govt Issues New SOP to Streamline Part Plot Registrations

Bhubaneswar: The Revenue and Disaster Management Department has introduced a new Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) to streamline and simplify the registration of part plots across Odisha. The move aims to bring uniformity, transparency, and ease of living for citizens while resolving long-standing inconsistencies in registration practices.

The new SOP, unveiled by Revenue and Disaster Management Minister Suresh Kumar Pujari, replaces all previous guidelines on part plot registration. It provides clear directives to Registering Officers under the Registration Act, 1908, and the Odisha Registration (Amendment) Act, 2013, ensuring a standardized approach across the state.

According to the department, the new framework was introduced because several Registering Officers lacked full knowledge of the relevant laws and procedures, resulting in delays and irregularities.

The SOP specifies that, under Sections 21 and 22 of the Registration Act, 1908, read with Rule 147 of the Odisha Registration Rules, 1988, Registering Officers must accept non-testamentary deeds of immovable property that contain a clear description of the land, including a map and four boundaries for proper identification.

It also reiterates that under Section 22-A(1)(c) of the Odisha Amendment Act, 2013, officers must refuse registration of any property transfer or alienation prohibited under any State or Central Act.

Key Provisions of the SOP

• Rural Areas: Part plot registration is allowed without pre-conditions, except for Jalasaya Kissam plots, which must be transferred as full plots. Sub-divisions should not exceed 500 square meters.
• Agricultural Land: Sub-division is permitted if the land continues to be classified as agricultural Kissam, supported by a self-declaration (Form D) confirming its agricultural use.
• Urban and Planned Areas: Governed by the Odisha Development Authorities Act and Town Planning Acts, with exemptions for:
  • Family sub-divisions
  • Small sub-divisions below 500 sq. m with no real estate use
  • Co-sharer divisions, provided there is consent and proportional allocatio
•  Pre-existing Small Plots: Sub-divisions of plots under 500 sq. m recorded before the 2025 ODA & OTP & IT Second Amendment Rules will be allowed, provided they comply with other applicable laws.

Guidelines for Registering Officers

Registering Officers must:

• Verify maps, boundaries, and self-declarations
• Ensure compliance with legal exemptions
• Maintain records of declarations and approvals

The introduction of this SOP marks a major step toward clarity and standardisation in land registration procedures across Odisha, enhancing public convenience, legal transparency, and administrative efficiency.