The Inspector General of Registration and Controller of Stamps, Maharashtra State, Pune, has announced a significant change that will directly impact citizens, especially those who rent homes. The state has decided to immediately cancel the appointment of all Authorized Service Providers (ASPs) for the online registration of Leave and License agreements. This move is expected to simplify the process and eliminate the need for third-party intermediaries, but it could also create new challenges for tenants and landlords.
The ASP scheme was first launched in 2015 to help citizens who lacked the technical knowledge to navigate the online registration process for Leave and License documents. However, over time, the department received numerous complaints about the ASPs, with some even being found to have engaged in irregularities during the document registration process.
According to a report from various regional offices, the ASP scheme is no longer necessary due to increased technical literacy among citizens and wider access to online services. The decision to cancel the ASP appointments was made with the public interest in mind.
The official announcement, made by Ravindra Binwade, I.A.S., the Inspector General of Registration and Controller of Stamps, Maharashtra State, Pune, was issued on August 28, 2025. The circular, states that the decision is effective immediately. Following the new mandate, the department has instructed the relevant Deputy Inspector General of Registration and the Accounts Department to reconcile the security deposits submitted by the ASPs and make appropriate decisions regarding the remaining amount. The circular also directs the removal of all previous circulars and lists related to ASPs from the department’s website.
What this means for tenants?
This decision is a step towards a more transparent and direct process for property transactions, but it also shifts the responsibility of online registration to the tenants and landlords themselves.
| Previous System (with ASPs) | New System (without ASPs) |
| A tenant could rely on an ASP to handle the online registration, a process that was affordable and convenient. | A tenant will now have to directly handle the online registration process, which may require technical knowledge and equipment. |
| The process was considered hassle-free and affordable, with ASPs charging regularized rates. | The process may become more tedious and potentially more expensive if a tenant or landlord has to hire a lawyer or agent, or purchase their own equipment. |
| The system had a risk of irregularities and consumer complaints. | This new process aims to be more direct and transparent, reducing reliance on third parties. |
Key Directives from the Circular
- The appointment of all Authorized Service Providers (ASPs) for the online registration of Leave and License agreements has been canceled with immediate effect.
- All circulars and lists related to the ASPs are to be removed from the department’s website.
- It is now the responsibility of the tenant and landlord to complete the online registration process for their leave and license agreement.
Also Read: Physical registration of Leave & License re-starts
