The Ministry of Finance (Department of Revenue) has notified amendments to the designation of special courts under the Prohibition of Benami Property Transactions Act, 1988.
The notification, issued on July 17, 2025, and published under S.O. 3268(E), was made in exercise of the powers conferred under Section 50(1) of the Act, and in consultation with the Chief Justices of the respective High Courts.
Key Amendments to the 2018 Notification
As per the new notification, changes have been made to the 2018 Gazette Notification No. S.O. 5323(E) dated October 16, 2018, regarding the designation of special courts:
- Serial No. 5 (Raipur): The designated court has now been changed to "Court of XII Additional Sessions Judge, Raipur."
- Serial No. 21 (Jaipur): The designated court has been updated to "Special Court (Communal Riots), Jaipur."
These special courts are entrusted with the trial of offences under the Benami Act and are part of the central government's ongoing efforts to combat the use of benami properties for tax evasion and money laundering.
Background
The Prohibition of Benami Property Transactions Act, 1988, aims to curb transactions where property is held in someone else's name to conceal ownership or evade taxes. The Central Government, in consultation with respective High Courts, had earlier designated several Special Courts across the country in 2018 to try offences under the Act.
This latest amendment reflects periodic updates based on administrative requirements and judicial consultations to ensure efficiency in case handling.
Official copy of the notification has been attached
CAclubindia
