Pune Real Estate Firm Seeks More Time in Stamp Duty Dispute
Amadea Enterprises LLP, a company where deputy chief minister Ajit Pawar's son Parth Pawar is a partner alongside Digvijay Patil, has formally requested an additional 15 days to submit its response to the state registration department's notice demanding ₹21 crore in alleged stamp duty shortfall. The notice is connected to the controversial Mundhwa land registration that has been under intense scrutiny.
Extension Sought Amid Legal Preparations
According to senior registration department officials who spoke with TOI on Monday, the firm was originally given until Monday to either pay the disputed amount or provide a comprehensive explanation. The company has now appointed approximately 10 lawyers and has asked for detailed documents along with the 15-day extension to file its official response.
When questioned whether Amadea Enterprises showed any willingness to pay the ₹21 crore amount, officials clarified that the company's letter only mentioned its intention to offer an explanation regarding the stamp duty deficiency. The notice specifically pertains to the stamp duty shortfall and is separate from another potential ₹21 crore payment that would become due only if the firm chooses to execute a cancellation deed for the 40-acre government land parcel.
Potential Financial Implications and Investigation Findings
Officials emphasized that cancellation remains entirely the party's decision. The department has informed the firm about this option but has not set any deadline for such a decision. If Amadea Enterprises eventually opts for cancellation, the total financial outgo would amount to a substantial ₹42 crore.
The Mundhwa registration came under investigation after a five-member probe committee headed by joint inspector general of registration (IGR) Rajendra Muthe flagged serious procedural lapses. The committee, formed on November 6, was specifically tasked with examining alleged irregularities, identifying document gaps, reviewing legal provisions invoked, and determining how the registration proceeded despite the land being classified as government property.
The investigation report, submitted last week, indicted suspended Haveli no. 4 sub-registrar Ravindra Taru along with both parties involved in the May 20 sale deed. The parties named include Sheetal Tejwani, who held power of attorney for Ashok Gaikwad and 271 others linked to the erstwhile Mahar watan land (now government-owned), and Digvijay Patil of Amadea Enterprises LLP.
The report cited multiple irregularities and violations of registration and stamp duty provisions. In response to these findings, the registration department has ordered a full audit of all registrations handled by Ravindra Taru during his tenure. The IGR has forwarded the comprehensive investigation report to the state government through the divisional commissioner for further action.
