In a significant relief for Gujarat’s middle-class families, Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel has announced a crucial decision to reduce the financial strain caused by penalties under the state’s Stamp Act provisions. Acting sympathetically on the representations of small and middle-class citizens who were suffering due to hefty stamp duty penalties, the Chief Minister has directed a more rational approach to collections.

According to an official statement from the Gujarat Chief Minister’s Office, under the revised framework, only an amount equal to the duty payable will now be collected, including 20% of the original duty and the penalty amount. This means that middle-class homebuyers and small property owners will no longer face exorbitant penalty payments beyond the revised, proportionate rates.

The Revenue Department’s earlier provisions had led to a disproportionately high financial burden on people purchasing or transferring property, as penalties sometimes rose to unaffordable levels. Responding to public appeals and delegations highlighting the difficulties of these middle-class families, CM Bhupendra Patel took a “positive approach to the entire issue,” according to the CMO.

Officials said this measure is aimed at striking a balance between compliance and compassion, ensuring that genuine buyers are not forced into financial distress.