Kamal Ghorui
PUNE: Citizens across the state can now register and safeguard their wills at any of the 517 sub-registrar offices at any time for a registration fee of Rs 100, officials said.Unlike other property-related documents, wills are exempt from the four-month statutory deadline and can be presented for registration at any point after execution.
A will is a legal declaration specifying how a person’s self-acquired movable or immovable property, or their share in ancestral property, should be distributed after death. Registration of a will is not mandatory under law, but officials said it is strongly recommended as it enhances authenticity, provides legal clarity and helps minimise disputes among legal heirs.Deputy Inspector General (IT) Abhay Mohite said registering a will during a person’s lifetime can be done at any sub-registrar office with no deadline. “This ensures the intent is formally recorded and helps reduce future disputes. Though this provision has existed, we are now witnessing an encouraging response from citizens because of the flexibility offered,” he said.In cases where a will is not registered before death, the executor named in the document or any person claiming rights under it can present it for registration. Officials said the sub-registrar then verifies due execution of the will, confirms the death, and establishes the legal authority of the applicant. Documents required include the death certificate, affidavit, witness statements, and probate or court order where applicable.The department has also provided the option of a sealed will.“A will may be confidentially deposited in a sealed cover with the district registrar for a fee of Rs 100, either by the person or an authorised representative. It can be withdrawn during the person’s lifetime on payment of Rs100. After death, it can be opened on application, verified, recorded and a certified copy issued,” a senior official said.Mohite said, “This framework gives citizens flexibility while ensuring legal safeguards. It will help reduce disputes and ensure smoother succession of property.”Officials said the will registration practices are similar across states, with registration fees typically ranging from Rs 10 to Rs 100, and no stamp duty, in most cases. While registration is optional nationwide, it is recommended to strengthen legal validity and avoid disputes.Legal activist Kishore Patil said a registered will brings clarity and prevents prolonged family disputes.Property consultant M Kulkarni said options such as post-death registration and sealed deposit ensure a person’s wishes are respected, making succession smoother.
