Patna: The Income Tax Department has launched a crackdown on large-scale cash transactions in land registrations across Bihar, issuing notices to sub-registrars in 11 districts over concerns that black money is being laundered through property deals.
Officials said notices have been served to 57 registration offices, including key areas such as Danapur, Patna Sadar, Phulwarisharif, Vikram, Patna City, and Bihta. Sub-registrars have been instructed to immediately report any cash transactions exceeding Rs 2 lakh.
The move comes amid reports that cash dealings dominate the land registry sector in North Bihar, with officials estimating that roughly 95% of transactions are conducted in cash. Such practices, the department noted, contravene both Supreme Court directives and Income Tax rules.
Investigations also revealed widespread non-compliance with mandatory procedures, including the submission of PAN cards and Form-60, which is required for buyers or sellers without a PAN. In several cases, incorrect PAN numbers were reportedly entered deliberately, raising concerns that property deals are being used to legitimise illicit funds.
The department has asked the 57 sub-registrars, including those in Muzaffarpur, Paru, Katra, Kanti, and Motipur, to explain these irregularities. Officials warned that unsatisfactory responses could lead to further punitive action against both registrars and others involved.
