Mutation, in the context of land revenue administration in the Punjab province of India, refers to the transfer of ownership rights from one person to another. It is an important process in the maintenance of land records and is essential for ensuring accurate revenue assessment.
Mutation can occur due to various reasons, such as sale, purchase, inheritance, gift, mortgage, or lease. The transfer of ownership can be between individuals, entities, or even between government departments.
Process of Mutation Involves the Following Steps:
- Application: The person seeking mutation has to apply to the revenue department, providing all the relevant details, including the nature of transfer, the names of the parties involved, the area of land, and the revenue assessment.
- Verification: The revenue officials verify the application and the supporting documents, such as the sale deed, will, gift deed, or lease agreement.
- Inspection: The Patwari, who is the village revenue official, inspects the land to verify its boundaries, area, and other relevant details.
- Mutation entry: After the verification and inspection, the revenue officials enter the mutation details in the land records, including the names of the parties involved, the nature of transfer, and the new revenue assessment.
- Notification: The revenue officials notify the parties involved about the mutation entry and issue a new land record or a Jamabandi.
Mutation is an important process in maintaining accurate land records and revenue assessment. It ensures that the rightful owner of the land is recorded in the land records, and the revenue assessment is based on the current ownership. The mutation process is typically completed within a specified time frame, and any delay can result in legal and financial consequences for the parties involved.