What stamp duty do I pay for a flat sale agreement in Allahabad under the state stamp act?

Detailed Legal Analysis

The stamp duty payable in Allahabad for a flat sale agreement is governed by Uttar Pradesh Rent Control Act 1972, which sets the schedule of rates and the surcharge applicable to urban immovable property. The duty is calculated on the market value or the agreement value, whichever is higher, and is payable before registration at the Sub-Registrar's office.

The Allahabad High Court has upheld the state's power to fix duty on market value and to revise circle rates periodically. Under-payment of stamp duty renders the document inadmissible in evidence and attracts a penalty up to ten times the deficit under Uttar Pradesh Rent Control Act 1972.

Always verify the prevailing circle rate with the Sub-Registrar and pay the correct duty before registration to avoid future litigation and penalties.