With rising land prices and rapid urban expansion, property crimes—especially land grabbing, fake registry papers, and unlawful possession—have become disturbingly common in India.

People lose their life savings due to lack of due diligence or falling into traps laid by fake brokers, builders, or even relatives.

⚠️ Common Types of Property Crimes:

Illegal Possession (Encroachment):
Someone takes control of a vacant property—often done by land mafias or even local musclemen.

Fake Documents (Forgery):
Fraudsters use forged property papers to sell land they don’t legally own.

Benami Property Disputes:
Properties purchased in someone else’s name (without transparency) often lead to long legal battles.

Family Inheritance Disputes:
Properties inherited by multiple heirs frequently turn into legal tussles due to unclear division or outdated records.

Builder Fraud:
Selling the same property/flat to multiple buyers or delaying possession without legal justification.

✅ Precautions Before Buying a Property:

🧾 Verify Title Deed:
Ensure the seller has a clear and marketable title to the property. Check original documents, not just photocopies.

🏛️ Check Encumbrance Certificate:
Confirms the property is free from legal dues or mortgages.

📜 Confirm Land Use & Zoning:
Make sure the property is approved for the purpose you're buying (residential, commercial, etc.).

📍 Visit the Site Personally:
Always inspect the property physically to ensure no one is occupying it illegally.

🏢 RERA Registration (for under-construction property):
Check if the builder is registered under RERA (Real Estate Regulatory Authority).

👨‍⚖️ Legal Opinion:
Hire a lawyer to conduct due diligence, especially for large investments or inherited land.

🏤 Municipal Records:
Cross-check property tax receipts, approved layout plans, and other government records.

🔐 What to Do If You’re a Victim of Land Grabbing?

File an FIR at the local police station.

Lodge a complaint with the Sub-Registrar or Tehsildar.

Approach the civil court for a legal injunction.

If the case is complex, file with RERA or Consumer Court, depending on the situation.

📢 Public Awareness Message:

🔊 “Don’t let your dream home turn into a legal nightmare. Always verify before you buy.”