The Registration Department came into existence vide Government of Bihar Resolution No. 1724 dated 28 August 1991. Prior to its establishment as an independent department, it functioned under the Revenue Department. The Department is headed by the Hon'ble Minister at the political level, while the Departmental Secretary serves as the administrative head.
Organisational Structure
Historical Background
The history of registration in Bihar dates back to the latter part of the 18th century. The process formally began with Regulation XXXVI of 1793, which established registration offices at the Sadar Station of every district and in the city of Patna. Subsequently, Regulation XXXIX of 1793 provided for the appointment of a Kazi-ul-Kazat for Bengal, Bihar and Orissa, along with District Kazis responsible for registration-related functions.
During the British administration, the registration system underwent several reforms. The concept of compulsory registration was introduced through Act XVI of 1864, replacing all previous enactments and establishing a more structured registration mechanism.
Key Provisions of the Registration Act, 1864
- Specified time limit for presenting documents for registration after execution.
- Maintenance of four statutory Register Books.
- Maintenance of two additional Register Books for wills and authorities to adopt.
- Preparation of duplicate abstracts for registered immovable property documents to be forwarded to the District Registrar and Inspector General of Registration.
Registration Act, 1908
The present Registration Act, 1908 came into force on 1 January 1909. It consolidated the registration laws and has been amended several times by both the Central and State Governments to meet changing administrative and technological requirements.
Registration and Other Related Laws (Amendment) Act, 2001
Important features introduced through the amendment include:
- Maintenance of registration records in electronic form.
- Photographs and fingerprints of parties made mandatory.
- Compulsory registration of sale deeds.