Blog

Also Read: Understanding the Land Acquisition Act 2013: A Comprehensive Guide

Meaning of Land Acquisition Compensation

Land acquisition compensation refers to the monetary and non-monetary benefits that the government is legally bound to provide when it acquires private land for a public purpose or for certain private and public-private partnership (PPP) projects.

Importantly, compensation is not limited to the price of land alone. Modern land laws recognise that land is:

1. A source of livelihood

2. A place of residence

3. A long-term economic asset

4. A social and cultural anchor

Therefore, compensation includes:

1. Payment for the market value of land

2. Additional statutory amounts such as solatium

3. Compensation for structures, crops, and assets

4. Rehabilitation and resettlement (R&R) benefits

The objective is to ensure that affected families are not economically worse off after land acquisition.

Also Read: A Comprehensive Guide to the Right to Fair Compensation in Land Acquisition

Legal Framework Governing Land Acquisition Compensation

The primary law governing land acquisition compensation in India is the:

Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement Act, 2013

This Act replaced the colonial-era Land Acquisition Act, 1894, which was widely criticised for unfair valuation and lack of safeguards.

Scope of the LARR Act

The Act applies to land acquisition for:

1. Public purposes (roads, railways, defence, irrigation, urban infrastructure)

2. Private companies (subject to consent)

3. Public-private partnership projects (subject to consent)

Three Pillars of the LARR Act

1. Fair and enhanced compensation

2. Transparency in acquisition process

3. Mandatory rehabilitation and resettlement

This marked a shift from treating land merely as property to recognising it as a livelihood resource.

Also Read: In the middle of land dispute, a land acquisition lawyer can be your saviour

Principles Behind Compensation Under the LARR Act, 2013

The compensation mechanism under the LARR Act is based on well-defined principles:

1. Compensation must reflect actual market value

2. Rural landowners receive higher compensation due to livelihood dependence

3. Assets attached to land must be independently valued

4. Forced acquisition must attract additional compensation

5. Rehabilitation and resettlement are legal rights, not charity

These principles aim to balance development needs with social justice.

Also Read: Understanding Property Laws in New Delhi: How Property Dispute Lawyers Can Help?

Determination of Market Value of Land

The market value of land is the foundation of compensation.

How Market Value Is Determined

The Collector determines market value based on the highest of the following:

1. Average sale price of similar land in nearby areas (based on registered sale deeds)

2. Stamp duty (circle) rate fixed by the State government

3. Consent-based price agreed upon in private or PPP projects

This method prevents undervaluation and aligns compensation with real market conditions.

Also Read: Ways To Resolve Property Disputes In India

Multiplication Factor for Compensation

Once market value is determined, it is enhanced using a multiplication factor.

Why a Multiplier Is Applied

Land values in rural areas often do not reflect the true economic dependence of families. Therefore, higher multipliers are applied.

Applicable Multipliers

• Rural areas: Up to 4 times the market value

• Urban areas: Up to 2 times the market value

The exact multiplier depends on:

1. Distance from urban centres

2. Nature of land

3. State-specific rules

Also Read: Supreme Court's Landmark Verdict: Limits on Government Takeover of Private Property

Solatium for Compulsory Acquisition

Solatium is compensation paid for the involuntary nature of land acquisition.

Solatium Under the LARR Act

1. Solatium = 100% of the compensation amount

2. Applied after multiplication factor

This means landowners receive double the multiplied market value.

Solatium recognises:

1. Emotional distress

2. Social displacement

3. Loss of security due to forced acquisition

Also Read: Land Ownership Verification Services - Legalkart

Compensation for Assets and Standing Crops

Compensation is not restricted to land value alone.

Affected persons are entitled to compensation for:

1. Residential houses and buildings

2. Shops, factories, and commercial structures

3. Wells, borewells, and irrigation systems

4. Boundary walls and fencing

5. Standing crops

6. Fruit-bearing and timber trees

Each asset is independently assessed and added to the final compensation.

Also Read: Understanding Land Valuation in India: Factors That Affect Land Value

Compensation for Damages and Losses

The LARR Act recognises indirect economic losses, including:

1. Damage due to severance of remaining land

2. Loss caused by relocation of residence or business

3. Increased transportation or operational costs

4. Loss of access to common property resources

This ensures a holistic assessment of financial impact, not just land price.

Rehabilitation and Resettlement (R&R) Benefits

One of the most transformative features of the LARR Act is mandatory rehabilitation and resettlement.

Who Is Entitled to R&R Benefits

1. Landowners

2. Agricultural labourers

3. Tenants and sharecroppers

4. Families dependent on the acquired land

Key R&R Benefits

1. Housing or housing allowance

2. One-time subsistence allowance

3. Employment or annuity support

4. Transportation allowance

5. Resettlement allowance

The law mandates that R&R benefits must be initiated before possession of land is taken.

Also Read: Registered Sale Deed Alone Doesn’t Guarantee Ownership — Supreme Court Rules

Final Compensation Calculation

A typical compensation calculation includes:

1. Market value of land

2. Application of multiplication factor

3. 100% solatium

4. Value of assets and standing crops

5. Compensation for damages and losses

6. Rehabilitation and resettlement benefits

This structured formula ensures consistency, transparency, and accountability.

Also Read: Property Title Verification In India: The Process, Methods and Other Aspects

Consent Requirements and Impact on Compensation

For non-government projects, consent is mandatory:

• Private projects: Consent of 80% affected families

• PPP projects: Consent of 70% affected families

Consent-based valuation often results in higher compensation, as prices are negotiated rather than imposed.

Comparison With Pre-2013 Compensation Regime

Before 2013 (Land Acquisition Act, 1894)

1. Arbitrary valuation

2. Low solatium

3. No rehabilitation framework

4. Frequent protests and litigation

After 2013 (LARR Act)

1. Market-linked valuation

2. High multipliers and solatium

3. Mandatory rehabilitation

4. Greater transparency

The 2013 Act fundamentally reshaped land acquisition law in India.

Challenges in Implementation of Compensation Provisions

Despite strong legal provisions, challenges remain:

1. Underreported sale prices affecting market value

2. Delays in payment of compensation

3. Inconsistent state-level rules

4. Rising project costs for governments

Digitisation of land records and administrative reforms are crucial to address these issues.

Economic and Social Significance of Fair Compensation

Fair compensation:

1. Improves financial security of displaced families

2. Reduces resistance and litigation

3. Promotes ethical development

4. Builds trust between citizens and the State

A well-designed compensation system balances growth with dignity.

Conclusion

Land acquisition compensation in India has undergone a historic transformation with the enactment of the LARR Act, 2013. By linking compensation to market value, applying location-based multipliers, granting solatium, and mandating rehabilitation, the law seeks to protect landowners and affected families from economic injustice.

While implementation challenges persist, the legal framework represents a rights-centric approach to development. Understanding compensation calculation and legal entitlements empowers landowners to assert their rights and ensures that development does not come at the cost of human dignity.

Also Read: Section 354 IPC: A Comprehensive Guide to Combating Physical Harassment

Meaning and Scope of Verbal Harassment

Verbal harassment refers to the use of spoken words, sounds, expressions, or gestures intended to insult, intimidate, humiliate, threaten, or mentally distress another person. It may occur as a single incident or as repeated behaviour and can take place in various environments such as:

1. Public places

2. Private interactions

3. Workplaces

4. Domestic settings

5. Educational institutions

6. Online and digital platforms

Verbal harassment is not the same as ordinary disagreement, criticism, or casual rudeness. It goes beyond momentary anger or social friction and usually involves an abuse of power, dominance, or intent to harm another person emotionally or psychologically.

Common forms of verbal harassment include:

1. Persistent insults or name-calling

2. Threats to life, safety, reputation, or property

3. Sexually inappropriate or lewd remarks

4. Public humiliation or ridicule

5. Caste-based, gender-based, or identity-based abuse

6. Verbal intimidation meant to silence or control

Indian criminal law focuses not merely on the words spoken, but on their intent and consequences.

Also Read: How to Handle Harassment from Loan Recovery Agents: Know Your Legal Options

Is Verbal Harassment a Crime in India?

Yes, verbal harassment can be a criminal offence in India, but not every unpleasant or offensive remark attracts criminal liability.

Indian law draws a clear distinction between:

1. Socially undesirable or rude behaviour, and

2. Criminal conduct that violates dignity, safety, or public order

Under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, verbal harassment becomes punishable when it crosses legally recognised thresholds, such as:

1. Creating fear or alarm

2. Intentionally insulting dignity

3. Provoking violence or breach of peace

4. Using obscene or sexually explicit language in public

5. Threatening life, reputation, or property

6. Insulting the dignity or modesty of women

Thus, the criminality of verbal harassment depends on intent, setting, seriousness, and social impact.

Verbal Harassment Under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023

Obscene Acts and Words in Public Places (Earlier Section 294 IPC)

The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita penalises obscene acts, songs, or words used in public places that cause annoyance to others.

Verbal harassment may fall under this provision when it involves:

1. Vulgar or sexually explicit language

2. Lewd comments spoken loudly in public

3. Obscene songs or verbal expressions

4. Conduct causing public annoyance

Key legal elements include:

1. Use of obscene words or expressions

2. Occurrence in a public place

3. Annoyance caused to others

The punishment may include simple imprisonment, fine, or both. The law does not criminalise all offensive speech, but targets obscenity that affects public morality and peace.

Criminal Intimidation – Sections 351 and 352, BNS

(Earlier Sections 503 and 506 IPC)

Criminal intimidation is one of the most serious forms of verbal harassment recognised under Indian law.

Section 351 defines criminal intimidation as threatening a person with injury to:

1. Life

2. Body

3. Reputation

4. Property

The threat must be intended to cause alarm or to compel the victim to do or avoid doing something.

Section 352 prescribes punishment depending on the gravity of the threat.

Verbal harassment becomes criminal intimidation when it includes:

1. Threats to kill or cause physical harm

2. Threats to defame or damage reputation

3. Threats intended to instil fear or force compliance

Even if the threat is purely verbal, criminal liability arises if intention and alarm are established. Actual harm need not occur.

Intentional Insult Intended to Provoke Breach of Peace – Section 356, BNS

(Earlier Section 504 IPC)

This provision criminalises intentional insults made with the knowledge that such conduct is likely to provoke violence or disturb public peace.

Verbal harassment falls under this section when:

1. Abusive or insulting words are used deliberately

2. The speaker knows such words may provoke retaliation

3. There is a real likelihood of violence or disturbance

The law focuses not on emotional hurt alone, but on the risk to social order. Mere harsh language is not enough; the insult must be intentional and provocative.

Public Nuisance – Section 270, BNS

(Earlier Section 268 IPC)

Public nuisance refers to acts or omissions that cause common annoyance, danger, or inconvenience to the public.

Verbal harassment may amount to public nuisance when it involves:

1. Repeated shouting or abusive speech in public areas

2. Disturbance to neighbourhood peace

3. Loud verbal abuse affecting public comfort

The emphasis is on community impact, not just personal offence.

Word, Gesture or Act Intended to Insult the Modesty of a Woman – Section 79, BNS

(Earlier Section 509 IPC)

This is a crucial provision protecting women from verbal harassment.

Any word, sound, gesture, or act intended to insult the modesty of a woman is punishable.

Courts have consistently interpreted “modesty” as encompassing:

1. Dignity

2. Self-respect

3. Bodily autonomy

4. Personal integrity

Verbal harassment under this section includes:

1. Sexual remarks

2. Lewd comments

3. Gender-based humiliation

4. Derogatory references to body or character

This provision applies irrespective of whether the act occurs in public or private.

Also Read: What to Do If Your Landlord Is Harassing You: A Complete Legal Guide for Tenants

Verbal Harassment Under Special Laws

Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005

Indian law recognises that verbal abuse within domestic relationships can be as damaging as physical violence.

The Act explicitly includes verbal and emotional abuse within the definition of domestic violence. This includes:

1. Persistent insults

2. Humiliation

3. Ridicule

4. Verbal degradation

An aggrieved woman can seek civil remedies such as:

1. Protection orders

2. Residence orders

3. Monetary relief

The focus is on protection and rehabilitation rather than punishment alone.

Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace Act, 2013

Verbal harassment at the workplace involving sexually coloured remarks or verbal conduct of sexual nature is prohibited.

Employers are legally obligated to:

1. Prevent harassment

2. Establish Internal Complaints Committees

3. Provide safe working environments

The law treats verbal harassment as a violation of equality, dignity, and fundamental workplace rights.

Also Read: Know About Sexual Harassment At Workplace

Verbal Harassment in the Digital Space

With increasing online communication, verbal harassment frequently occurs through:

1. Social media comments

2. Emails and messages

3. Online forums and chats

The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita applies irrespective of the medium. Additionally, the Information Technology Act, 2000 addresses:

1. Obscene electronic content

2. Offensive messages

3. Online intimidation

Digital verbal harassment often causes amplified harm due to anonymity, permanence, and wide reach.

Evidentiary Challenges in Verbal Harassment Cases

One of the biggest challenges in prosecuting verbal harassment is proof.

Courts rely on:

1. Witness testimony

2. Audio or video recordings

3. Electronic records

4. Context and surrounding circumstances

Indian courts follow a balanced approach, protecting victims while preventing misuse of criminal law.

Not Every Verbal Act Is a Crime

Indian criminal law consciously avoids criminalising:

1. Ordinary arguments

2. Emotional outbursts

3. Isolated rude remarks

Verbal conduct becomes criminal only when it:

1. Is deliberate and malicious

2. Causes fear or humiliation

3. Violates legally protected dignity

4. Disturbs public peace

This balance protects free expression while addressing genuine harm.

Procedural Support Under the New Criminal Laws

The Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, 2023 introduces several victim-friendly reforms, including:

1. Zero FIR, regardless of jurisdiction

2. Online complaint registration

3. Strengthened procedural safeguards

These measures improve access to justice for victims of verbal harassment.

Conclusion

Verbal harassment is not a trivial issue under Indian law. When it manifests as obscenity, intimidation, intentional insult, public nuisance, or dignity-based abuse, it is clearly punishable.

Under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, the protections earlier available under the IPC continue with clearer structure and improved procedural support. While not every unpleasant word invites criminal liability, verbal harassment that undermines dignity, creates fear, or disrupts social order is firmly recognised as a criminal offence.

Addressing verbal harassment through law is essential to protect mental safety, dignity, equality, and social harmony in modern India.

https://www.mfcentral.com/

MF Central is a unified platform jointly developed by CAMS and KFinTech, regulated by SEBI.

2. MITRA – Mutual Fund Investment Tracing & Retrieval Assistant

Accessible through MF Central

MITRA is designed specifically to:

1. Trace inactive and forgotten folios

2. Identify unclaimed dividends and redemption amounts

3. Help families discover investments they didn’t know existed

What Can You Search With?

You can trace mutual fund investments using:

1. PAN number

2. Mobile number

3. Email ID

4. Bank account details

5. Investor name (limited cases)

What MITRA & MF Central Show You

1. Active and inactive folios

2. AMC name and scheme details

3. Unclaimed dividend amounts

4. Unclaimed redemption proceeds

5. Status of KYC and bank linkage

SEBI describes MITRA as:

“A bridge reconnecting investors with their forgotten assets.”

Step-by-Step: How to Claim Unclaimed Mutual Fund Money

Step 1: Identify the Unclaimed Amount

Log in to MF Central / MITRA and note:

1. Folio number

2. AMC name

3. Amount pending

Step 2: Download the Claim Form

Visit the respective AMC website and download:

• Unclaimed Amount Claim Form

Step 3: Fill and Submit the Form

Submit the form to:

1. AMC office or

2. Registrar & Transfer Agent (RTA) – CAMS / KFinTech

Step 4: Document Verification

You will need:

1. PAN

2. Aadhaar

3. Updated KYC

4. Cancelled cheque

5. Proof of identity

6. Death certificate (if legal heir case)

Step 5: Receive the Money

Once verified:

1. Amount is credited directly to your bank account

2. Timeline: 2–5 working days

Important Rule: The 3-Year Rule (Very Important)

If Claimed Within 3 Years:

• You receive principal + appreciation

If Claimed After 3 Years:

1. You receive principal only

2. Appreciation goes to Investor Education Fund

Always claim as early as possible

Unclaimed Dividends & Shares: Complete Guide

How Much Is Unclaimed?

• Around ₹9,000 crore in dividends and shares

These amounts are transferred to:

Investor Education and Protection Fund Authority (IEPFA)

Under the Ministry of Corporate Affairs

When Do Dividends Go to IEPFA?

If:

• Dividend remains unclaimed for 7 consecutive years

• Shares related to such dividends also remain unclaimed

Then:

• Dividend + shares are transferred to IEPFA

Official Portal to Trace Dividends & Shares

IEPFA Portal

https://www.iepf.gov.in/

This portal allows:

1. Tracking unclaimed dividends

2. Claiming transferred shares

3. Filing online refund applications

Step-by-Step: How to Claim Unclaimed Dividends & Shares

Step 1: Search Your Name

Use:

1. Company name

2. Investor name

3. Folio / DP ID

Step 2: File Form IEPF-5

• Online submission through IEPFA portal

Step 3: Upload Required Documents

1. Aadhaar

2. PAN

3. Bank proof

4. Share certificates / demat proof

5. Indemnity bond

6. Advance stamped receipt

Step 4: Company Verification

1. Concerned company verifies your claim

2. Sends verification report to IEPFA

Step 5: Refund & Share Transfer

1. Amount credited to bank

2. Shares transferred to demat account

Timeframe: 30–60 days (approx.)

Helpdesks, FAQs & Regional Language Support

IEPFA provides:

1. Digital helpdesk

2. Video guides

3. SOPs

4. Regional language assistance

So far: ₹2,000+ crore has already been refunded to citizens

What If the Investor Is No More?

Legal heirs can claim by submitting:

1. Death certificate

2. Succession certificate / probate / legal heir certificate

3. KYC of claimant

Both mutual funds and IEPFA allow rightful legal heirs to claim without court litigation if documents are proper.

Other Portals You Should Also Check

Although this guide focuses on mutual funds & dividends, you should also check:

RBI – UDGAM Portal (Unclaimed Bank Deposits)

 https://udgam.rbi.org.in/unclaimed-deposits/

IRDAI – Bima Bharosa (Unclaimed Insurance)

 https://bimabharosa.irdai.gov.in/

Why This Matters More Than You Think

Many people assume:

“It must be a small amount.”

But small investments:

1. Compound over time

2. Accumulate dividends

3. Turn into lakhs or even crores

This is not just money. It is your family’s financial legacy.

Final Checklist: Take 10 Minutes Today

Check these portals:

1. MF Central / MITRA

2. IEPFA

3. UDGAM

4. Bima Bharosa

You may discover money you never knew existed.

Final Note

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s message is clear:

“Take your rightful money. This is your family’s hard-earned wealth. The time has come to get it back.”

Do not delay.
Do not assume.
Check today. Claim what is rightfully yours.

Also Read: Everything You Need to Know About Succession Certificates in Delhi

What Is a Varisu Certificate?

A Varisu Certificate is an official government document issued by the State Revenue Department, usually by the Tahsildar, Taluk Office, or Deputy Commissioner’s Office.

It officially confirms:

1. The legal heirs of a deceased person

2. The relationship of each heir with the deceased

The certificate is used primarily for administrative and financial purposes, such as property mutation, bank settlement, pension claims, insurance transfers, and more.

Also Read: Legal Heir Certificate in Delhi : Everything You Need to Know

Is Varisu Certificate the same as Legal Heir Certificate?

Yes. In most states, these terms are interchangeable:

Also Read: Understanding Property Laws in New Delhi: How Property Dispute Lawyers Can Help?

Difference Between Varisu Certificate, Waris Certificate & Legal Heir Certificate

Many people get confused by the different names. Here is the simplified explanation:

• Varisu Certificate = Tamil term for “Legal Heir Certificate”

• Waris Certificate = Hindi/Urdu term for “Heir Certificate”

• Legal Heir Certificate = Formal English term used in government processes

All three serve the same purpose: identifying legal heirs.

Also Read: Legal Checklist for Buying Property in Delhi NCR in 2025 – Your Complete Guide

Why You Need a Varisu Certificate (Major Uses)

After a person’s death, almost every government or financial institution requires an official confirmation of legal heirs before transferring assets.

A Varisu Certificate is used for:

A. Property-related purposes

1. Mutation of land or house records

2. Transfer of Patta/Khata/RTC

3. Updating municipal property records

4. Claiming tenancy or leasehold rights

B. Bank and financial settlements

1. Withdrawal of bank balance

2. Transfer of fixed deposits

3. Release of locker contents

4. Claiming bonds or debentures

C. Employment and retirement benefits

1. Pension transfer to surviving spouse

2. GPF, EPF, PPF withdrawals

3. Gratuity claims

4. Salary arrears of a deceased employee

D. Insurance claims

1. Life insurance settlement

2. Accident claim settlement

3. Government scheme benefits

E. Utility and administrative updates

1. Transfer of electricity, water, and gas connections

2. Updating property tax records

3. Transfer of vehicle ownership (if required)

F. For legal and government services

1. Applying for compassionate appointment

2. Claiming government compensation

3. Verifying relationship in inheritance cases

Without a Varisu Certificate, most authorities will not process any claim, even if the relationship is obvious.

Also Read: What Are The New Rules For Property Registration In India

Who Can Apply for a Varisu Certificate?

Any legal heir of the deceased person can apply.

Recognized legal heirs include:

1. Spouse – Husband or wife

2. Children – Sons and daughters (including adopted children)

3. Parents – Mother and father

4. Siblings – In some states if parents are deceased

5. Grandchildren – If children of deceased are no longer alive

Important Rule:

One legal heir can apply on behalf of all, but all heirs must be mentioned in the application.

Hiding an heir can lead to:

1. Application rejection

2. Legal disputes later

3. Fraud allegations

Also Read: Legal Considerations to Keep in Mind Before Selling Your House

Required Documents for Varisu Certificate

Preparing documents in advance helps avoid delays.

A. Mandatory Documents

1. Death Certificate of the deceased

2. Applicant’s ID proof – Aadhaar, PAN, Passport, Voter ID

3. Address proof – Aadhaar, Ration Card, Utility Bill

4. Proof of relationship

   1. Birth Certificate (children)

   2. Marriage Certificate (spouse)

   3. Family Ration Card

   4. School/college certificates showing parent’s name

B. Supporting Documents

5. Affidavit or self-declaration listing all heirs

6. No Objection Certificate (NOC) from other heirs (optional but helpful)

7. Photographs – Passport photos of applicant

8. Family Tree Certificate (required in some states)

9. Old property or revenue records (if applying for property purposes)

C. Identity proofs of all legal heirs (in some states)

Tip: Always carry original documents for verification during inquiry.

Also Read: Why You Need a Power of Attorney for Property? Know everything with LegalKart

Step-by-Step Offline Application Process (Traditional Method)

Despite digital initiatives, many families still prefer the offline process because local officers provide assistance.

Step 1: Visit the Local Revenue Office

Go to the office having jurisdiction over the deceased person’s last residence:

1. Taluk Office

2. Tahsildar Office

3. Revenue Inspector Office

4. Village Administrative Office

Step 2: Collect the Varisu Certificate Application Form

Some states allow handwritten applications; others require a prescribed form.

Provide details such as:

1. Name of the deceased

2. Date of death

3. Address

4. Names of legal heirs

5. Relationship to the deceased

Step 3: Attach Required Documents

Attach photocopies of documents and keep originals ready.

Step 4: Submit the Application

Submit your form to the revenue staff. You will receive an acknowledgment slip or application number.

Step 5: Verification & Local Inquiry

This is the most important stage.

The Revenue Officer may:

1. Verify documents

2. Ask Village Administrative Officer/VRO to conduct a field inquiry

3. Interview neighbours to confirm family details

4. Verify ration card or family documents

5. Publish notice inviting objections (in some states)

Step 6: Issuance of Varisu Certificate

Once verification is complete, the certificate is issued.

Time required:

1. Usually 15 – 30 days

2. Additional time if inquiry is complex

You can collect the certificate in person or through the local revenue office.

Also Read: NGDRS: Revolutionizing Property Registration Legalkart

Step-by-Step Online Application Process (2025 Update)

Most states now offer online Varisu Certificate services.

Common state portals include:

1. Tamil Nadu: e-Sevai

2. Karnataka: Seva Sindhu

3. Maharashtra: MahaOnline

4. Uttar Pradesh: e-District UP

5. Delhi: e-District Delhi

6. Bihar: RTPS Bihar

7. Odisha: e-District Odisha

8. West Bengal: Banglarbhumi / e-District WB

Step 1: Register on the State Service Portal

Create an account using:

1. Mobile number

2. Aadhaar authentication

3. Email ID (in some states)

Step 2: Select “Varisu Certificate / Legal Heir Certificate”

Provide details such as:

1. Name of deceased

2. Date of death

3. List of legal heirs

4. Address and contact information

Step 3: Upload Documents

Upload scanned copies of:

1. Death certificate

2. ID proofs

3. Relationship proof

4. Address proof

5. Family declaration

Tip: Make sure documents are readable to avoid rejection.

Step 4: Pay Application Fee

Most states charge a minimal fee:
₹10 to ₹100 depending on the state.

Payment options: UPI, Net Banking, Cards.

Step 5: Track Application Status

Use your application number to check updates such as:

1. Verification in progress

2. Documents pending

3. Certificate approved

Step 6: Download the Certificate

After approval, download your digitally signed certificate.
This is valid for all official transactions.

Processing Time, Validity & Fees

A. Processing Time

B. Validity of Varisu Certificate

A Varisu Certificate does not expire unless:

1. A new heir is discovered

2. A legal dispute arises

3. A court order supersedes it

C. Fees

Government fees are nominal:

1. ₹10 to ₹60 in most states

2. Additional charges if applying through a service center

Difference Between Varisu Certificate and Succession Certificate

Many people confuse the two, but they serve distinct legal purposes.

Important Note:

If there is a family dispute, banks or courts will require a Succession Certificate, not a Varisu Certificate.

Common Reasons for Delay or Rejection

Applications are often delayed due to avoidable mistakes.

A. Missing documents

1. Absence of death certificate

2. No relationship proof

3. Incomplete affidavit

B. Incorrect family details

1. Missing names of legal heirs

2. Wrong spelling or date mismatch across documents

C. Objections by other heirs

If any heir disputes the claim, the revenue officer may withhold issuance.

D. Address mismatch

The deceased’s address must match municipal records.

E. Poor quality document scans (for online applications)

State-Wise Availability of Online Varisu Certificate (2025 Update)

Here is the latest overview (2025):

Helpful Tips to Speed Up Approval

1. Prepare documents in advance

2. Ensure all legal heirs are listed correctly

3. Submit a family tree document if available

4. Use Aadhaar-based verification if the portal allows

5. Follow up with VAO/Tahsildar during verification

6. Provide NOC from other heirs to avoid objections

If applying online:

1. Use clear scanned documents

2. Check status regularly

3. Respond quickly to “document correction” requests

Final Thoughts

Obtaining a Varisu Certificate is an important step in settling the affairs of a deceased family member. Although the process might seem bureaucratic, it is straightforward when approached with the right preparation.

By understanding:

1. What the certificate means

2. Why it is important

3. Which documents you need

4. The exact step-by-step application process

—you can complete the procedure smoothly and with full confidence.

Whether applying online or offline, ensure accuracy, transparency, and proper documentation. This will help avoid delays, rejections, and unnecessary stress during an already sensitive time.