Home / Business and Economy / Nagpur Lawyers Seek Court Approval to Sell High-Denomination Stamp Papers
Nagpur Lawyers Seek Court Approval to Sell High-Denomination Stamp Papers
1 Aug
Summary
- Stamp paper shortage leads to black marketing in Nagpur
- Cooperative society seeks permission to sell Rs500 stamp papers
- Court appointed amicus curiae to assist in the matter
In July 2025, the Nagpur bench of the Bombay High Court initiated a suo motu public interest litigation (PIL) after taking cognizance of a news report on the artificial scarcity and inflated prices of stamp papers in the city. The court observed that stamp vendors were "creating artificial scarcity and imposing exorbitant rates" on citizens and legal professionals, despite the supply being regulated by the government.
As a result, the Advocates Multi-State Multi-Purpose Co-operative Society Limited has now moved the court, seeking permission to sell Rs500 denomination stamp papers. The society, which currently holds a temporary license to sell Rs5, Rs10, and Rs100 stamp papers, argued that the Rs500 denomination has become essential for several categories of documentation. However, its request to the joint district registrar to permit such sales was turned down in October 2024.
The cooperative society has also urged the court to remove the existing cap of Rs8 lakh on monthly sales, calling it "unrealistic for a city with high legal demand". The matter was listed on Wednesday before the division bench of Justices Anil Kilor and Vrushali Joshi, who adjourned the hearing.
