Aadhaar verification now mandatory for property registration in Maharashtra, Pune offices begin

Pune: The state's registration and stamps department has made Aadhaar-based verification mandatory for everyone involved in a property registration. The rule came into force on Wednesday, November 4. Identity can now also be verified through face authentication on the official mobile app of the UIDAI.

The new facility has been built into the department's iSARITA 1.9 system and is called Online Verification Seeking Entity (OVSE). Registration officials said it will work alongside the existing fingerprint and iris scan methods. The older methods have not been discontinued; the new option has been added to them.

The revised process has one important change. The earlier option under which a witness or introducer could vouch for a person whose Aadhaar verification had failed has now been scrapped. Every party to a property transaction must successfully complete Aadhaar verification before the registration can proceed.

To avoid delays at sub-registrar offices (SRO), citizens have been advised to download the official Aadhaar app before going to the office. The initial registration, SIM verification and face authentication should be completed before the visit. The app requires Android 9.0 or later, or iOS 16 or later. A working internet connection and a properly functioning camera are also necessary.

At the time of registration, a QR code will appear on the computer at the office. The person concerned must scan it with the Aadhaar app, give consent and complete the face check. The result appears immediately on the office computer. If the verification succeeds, the registration proceeds.

Deputy Inspector General of Registration Abhay Mohite said Aadhaar holders must be physically present at the office during verification. They must have a registered mobile phone and be able to log in to the app with a six-digit PIN. Those who have locked their Aadhaar biometrics will also have to unlock them through the app.

The department has instructed registration officials to explain to citizens the verification process, the sharing of information and the terms of consent. To familiarise people with the new system, the department is also releasing a detailed video guide on its social media pages.