THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: As the deadline for revaluation of the Rs 100 stamp paper, which has been discontinued by the Centre, will expire on March 31, the stamp paper shortage will intensify.

As of January 15, 1.18 lakh Rs 10 and 31.54 lakh Rs 20 stamp papers were in stock at the Central Stamp Depot. This is almost over. This was being revalued and used. The revaluation period is expected to be extended by a few more months.

The printing of Rs 100 stamp papers at Nashik Press was stopped as per the central decision to implement e-stamping in all states. Complete e-stamping has been announced in Kerala but the technical steps are not complete. E-stamping is being done only for registrations above 1 lakh. The demand of the vendors to increase the discount on stamp papers is under the consideration of the finance department. Complete e-stamping should be implemented only after a decision is taken in this regard.

Bank loans will also be affected

The Rs 100 stamp paper is required for all purposes such as lease agreements, chit, bond placement, bank loan, reconveyance, construction contracts and financial assistance from local bodies. At present, multiple stamp papers of small amounts are being used.

Discount 2 to 4.5%

Vendors' discount is 4.5 percent for stamp paper up to 1000 rupees, 2.5 percent for stamp paper between 1001 to 10,000 and 2 percent for stamp paper above 1 lakh. It is demanded that this rate fixed during the VS government should be increased. There are around 1500 vendors.

"Action should be taken to bring 6.72 lakh stamp papers of Rs 50 printed for Kerala at Nasik Press."

-Kiliyalloor Mani,

State General Secretary, Kerala Stamp Vendors Union