A recent notification by the Punjab Government amending rules for Cooperative Housing Societies has triggered strong opposition from residents, who term it a betrayal of public trust, media reports say.
Under the Punjab Cooperative Societies Act, 1961, no stamp duty or registration was required for allotment or transfer within such societies. The amendment now imposes heavy stamp duty and registration charges, granting exemption only to first allottees and limited relief to others till March 31, 2026.
Critics say the move unfairly targets middle-class families and senior citizens. They have demanded broader exemptions, lower transfer charges, more time for compliance, and registration of society land at original allotment rates.