Orissa HC Rules Sub‑Registrar Cannot Cancel Registered Deeds

Cuttack, April 25: The Orissa High Court has ruled that sub‑registrars cannot revoke registered sale deeds once executed, reinforcing the sanctity of property rights in the state.

The judgment came in response to a petition filed by Rashmita Sahu, who purchased land in 2008 and registered it in her name.

In 2011, the seller filed a unilateral cancellation deed, which was accepted by the authorities, nullifying her registration.

The High Court declared the cancellation illegal, stating that registration officers lack the authority to cancel registered deeds.

The court emphasised that registered land deeds hold legal finality and can only be challenged in a competent civil court, not revoked by registration authorities.

Legal experts hailed the ruling as a significant step in safeguarding property ownership and preventing misuse of cancellation deeds.

This landmark decision is expected to set a precedent for similar disputes across Odisha, ensuring greater security and trust in land transactions.