Move aims to benefit 45 lakh residents, simplify registration, and integrate colonies into formal urban planning
April 8, 2026: In a major policy shift, the Centre and the Delhi Government have announced that buildings in 1,511 unauthorised colonies will be granted legal status on an “as is, where is” basis. The decision removes the long-standing requirement of approved layout plans, making it easier for residents to secure ownership rights. The reform builds on the Pradhan Mantri-Unauthorised Colonies in Delhi Awas Adhikar Yojana, launched in 2019, which aimed to provide legal ownership through conveyance deeds and authorisation slips.
Union minister Manohar Lal Khattar said the move is intended to simplify procedures and encourage more residents to come forward for property registration. Under the new rules, applicants can submit building plans prepared by empanelled architects of the Municipal Corporation of Delhi instead of waiting for colony-wide layout approvals. Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta noted that around 4.5 million residents stand to benefit, as the policy covers most eligible colonies except those falling under environmental or planning restrictions.
The new framework also introduces a time-bound process, allowing approvals within 45 days via the SWAGAM or PM-UDAY portals. Authorities will conduct GIS and drone-based surveys to streamline development and prevent further unauthorised construction. While the move is seen as a major step towards planned urban integration, experts caution that legal and infrastructural challenges may arise during implementation, particularly in resolving ownership disputes and aligning with existing master plans.