The Prohibition of Benami Property Transaction Act, 1988

Prohibition of Benami Property Transactions Act, 1988 with Rules, 2016

This edition of The Prohibition of Benami Property Transactions Act, 1988 (Act 45 of 1988), as amended by The Finance (No. 2) Act, 2024 (w.e.f. 1-10-2024), is presented along with The Prohibition of Benami Property Transactions Rules, 2016 and The Benami Transactions (Prohibition) Amendment Act, 2016. This compilation serves as an authoritative legal reference for the prohibition, regulation, and enforcement of laws against benami property transactions in India.

The book presents the bare text of the law—precisely as enacted—without commentary or interpretation, making it ideal for statutory referencing, academic study, and professional use. It ensures direct access to the provisions that define and regulate benami transactions, outline enforcement mechanisms, and prescribe penalties.

The content spans the full scope of the Act and allied rules, including:

• Definition and scope of “benami property” and “benami transactions”

• Prohibitions on entering into, assisting, or facilitating benami transactions

• Powers of authorities to issue notices, investigate, attach, and confiscate benami properties

• Adjudication process and the role of the Adjudicating Authority

• Establishment and functioning of the Appellate Tribunal for Benami Transactions

• Offences, penalties, and procedures for prosecution

• The Prohibition of Benami Property Transactions Rules, 2016 detailing procedural and compliance requirements (as amended vide GSR 856(E), dated 29-11-2019)

• Text of the Benami Transactions (Prohibition) Amendment Act, 2016 (Act 43 of 2016) providing the legislative framework for enhanced enforcement

• Procedural safeguards and appeal rights for aggrieved persons

This edition is particularly suitable for:

• Legal practitioners specialising in property and financial laws

• Real estate developers, agents, and compliance officers

• Government officers responsible for enforcement of economic laws

• Academicians, researchers, and students of property and anti-corruption laws

• Policy makers and professionals advising on property transactions

Whether used in legal practice, compliance departments, government agencies, or academic institutions, this edition delivers the full legislative authority of The Prohibition of Benami Property Transactions Act, 1988 with allied rules and amendments, as applicable in 2025.