​The Maharashtra state cabinet has approved the ‘Special Abhaya Scheme-2025’, an amnesty initiative aimed at regularizing land leases for Sindhi refugees who settled in the state following the Partition. This scheme applies to 30 designated areas across Maharashtra, excluding Ulhasnagar, and will be in effect for one year. It grants ownership rights and freehold status to both residential and commercial plots at concessional rates. Specifically, residential properties up to 1,500 square feet will incur a premium of 5% of the Ready Reckoner Rate, while commercial properties will be charged 10%. For areas exceeding 1,500 square feet, the premium rate will be doubled. Community leaders anticipate that this decision will benefit approximately 500,000 individuals.

The government has indicated that the scheme’s duration may be extended for an additional year if necessary. Regarding Ulhasnagar, where land was previously a military camp, the state has assured that a separate ordinance will be introduced in the future to address land regularization in that area. ​The Times of India

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