Buying land in Eastern India without rigorous background checks carries grave financial and legal risks. From non-transferable tribal tenures to fraudulent double registrations, this checklist provides a systematic safeguard.
Never buy from a seller whose name does not explicitly appear in the online revenue register (Bihar Bhumi or Jharbhoomi). If the seller claims the property is in their late father's name, demand completion of Warisana mutation prior to registry.
Obtain a Non-Encumbrance Certificate from the District Sub-Registry Office to ensure the property hasn't been pledged as collateral for bank loans or sold to an earlier buyer.
In Jharkhand, verify that the land does not violate Section 46/49 of the Chota Nagpur Tenancy Act or Section 20 of the Santhal Parganas Tenancy Act. Rayati land under SPT Act cannot be transferred legally to non-agriculturists.
This checklist is informative in nature. Real estate transactions must be vetted by licensed legal advocates and certified revenue surveyors.