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Divorce Maintenance Calculation in India | Vizag

by Ganta Surya Kiran May 21, 2026

written by Ganta Surya Kiran

Divorce Maintenance Calculation in India: How Much Can You Claim?

By Advocate Ganta Surya Kiran | 19 Law Chambers, Visakhapatnam | Family Law

One of the most common questions in divorce cases is: how much maintenance will the court award? There is no fixed formula under Indian law courts have wide discretion and consider multiple factors. Understanding these factors helps you prepare a stronger maintenance claim or defence. Advocate Ganta Surya Kiran at 19 Law Chambers Visakhapatnam has secured significant maintenance awards for clients before the Family Court Visakhapatnam.

Types of Maintenance — Different Laws, Different Amounts

Interim Maintenance (Section 24 HMA): During pendency of divorce proceedings either spouse can claim. Courts award based on immediate needs and husband’s income. Often decided quickly within 2 to 3 months of application.

Permanent Alimony (Section 25 HMA): Awarded at the time of divorce decree one-time lump sum or monthly amount for life. Courts consider standard of living during marriage, duration of marriage, and future needs.

Maintenance Under Section 125 CrPC: Fastest remedy available regardless of religion. Any Magistrate court can award. Awarded when husband has sufficient means but neglects to maintain wife and children.

Factors Courts Consider for Maintenance Amount

Husband’s Income and Assets: Courts examine salary slips, IT returns, bank statements, property holdings, and business income. If husband hides income courts draw adverse inference from lifestyle and assets.

Wife’s Income and Needs: If wife is earning her income is considered but does not automatically reduce maintenance. Courts look at the gap between spouses’ financial positions and pre-marital standard of living.

Duration of Marriage: Longer the marriage higher the maintenance generally. Short marriages of under 2 years may result in lower or no permanent alimony.

Number and Age of Children: Child maintenance is additional to wife’s maintenance. Older children in higher education require more support. Read: Child Custody Rights India.

Standard of Living During Marriage: Courts aim to maintain the wife’s standard of living close to what she enjoyed during marriage. Upper-class families see significantly higher awards.

Conduct of Parties: Adultery or desertion by the claimant can reduce maintenance amount. However, even wives with some conduct issues are not denied maintenance entirely under Section 125 CrPC.

Maintenance Amounts — Realistic Expectations

There is no fixed percentage. In Andhra Pradesh courts typically award 20% to 35% of husband’s net monthly income as interim maintenance. The Supreme Court in Rajnesh v. Neha (2020) issued comprehensive guidelines requiring full financial disclosure from both parties before maintenance is determined. One-time permanent alimony settlements range from 3 to 5 years’ worth of annual maintenance amounts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can maintenance be increased after the initial order?
Yes — either party can file for modification if there is a material change in circumstances increase in husband’s income, change in wife’s needs, children’s education costs, etc.

Q: Can a working wife claim maintenance?
Yes — the Supreme Court has held that a wife’s employment does not automatically disentitle her to maintenance. If there is a significant gap between spouses’ income and standard of living maintenance is awarded. Guide: Wife Maintenance Rights Section 125 CrPC.

Q: What if husband refuses to pay court-ordered maintenance?
File an execution petition. Under Section 125(3) CrPC each month of default can result in imprisonment of up to 1 month. Courts also attach salary or bank accounts for recovery. Full divorce guide: Divorce Procedure India. Free legal aid: NALSA — nalsa.gov.in.

Also read: Mutual Consent Divorce Procedure India | Section 498A Dowry Harassment | Best Divorce Lawyers Vizag

📍 30-6-12, First Floor, Daba Gardens, Visakhapatnam 530020 | 📞 +91 99495 92127 | 🌐 19lawchambers.com | 📺 @19LawChambers

May 21, 2026 0 comments

POCSO Act India child protection sexual abuse legal process - 19 Law Chambers Visakhapatnam

Legal Awareness

POCSO Act India: Child Sexual Abuse Protection & Legal Process

by Ganta Surya Kiran May 21, 2026

written by Ganta Surya Kiran

POCSO Act India: Child Protection and Legal Process Explained

By Advocate Ganta Surya Kiran | 19 Law Chambers, Visakhapatnam | Legal Awareness

Child sexual abuse is a serious crime in India and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012 provides comprehensive legal protection for all persons under 18 years of age. Every adult has a legal duty to report child sexual abuse. Failure to report is itself a criminal offence under POCSO.

What Does POCSO Act Cover?

POCSO covers all forms of sexual abuse of children including: penetrative and non-penetrative sexual assault, sexual harassment, pornography involving children, and attempt to commit these offences. The Act covers both male and female children under 18. Any person including family members can be accused under POCSO.

Key Features of POCSO Act

Child-Friendly Procedures: Statements must be recorded by female police officers. Evidence can be given through video-conferencing. Identity of child victim must not be disclosed. Special Courts: Every district has a designated Special Court for POCSO cases ensuring faster trials. Reverse Burden of Proof: Once it is proved that sexual contact occurred the burden shifts to the accused to prove it was not assault. This is a major departure from normal criminal law. Mandatory Reporting: Every person who has knowledge of sexual abuse of a child must report to police or Special Juvenile Police Unit failure attracts imprisonment up to 6 months. Punishment: Penetrative sexual assault minimum 10 years, up to life imprisonment. Aggravated assault minimum 20 years to life.

How to Report Child Abuse Under POCSO

Call the Childline Helpline: 1098 — 24-hour service. File FIR at the nearest police station police must register immediately without question. Contact the Special Juvenile Police Unit (SJPU) in Visakhapatnam. Know FIR process: How to File FIR India.

Rights of the Child Victim

Right to free legal aid throughout trial. Compensation from the State even if accused is not convicted. Complete anonymity name cannot be published anywhere. Child-friendly court procedures no direct cross-examination by the accused. Support from police and NGOs during the process. Free legal aid: NALSA — nalsa.gov.in.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can a POCSO case be settled or withdrawn?
No — POCSO cases are non-compoundable. They cannot be withdrawn by the victim’s family or settled between parties. Only the court can decide the case. Any settlement pressure on the victim’s family is a separate criminal offence.

Q: What if the accused is a juvenile (below 18)?
Juveniles above 16 accused of heinous offences under POCSO can be tried as adults at the discretion of the Juvenile Justice Board. Juveniles below 16 treated under the Juvenile Justice Act.

Q: Can anonymous online grooming be prosecuted under POCSO?
Yes — online grooming, sending sexual content to children, and soliciting sexual acts from children online are all offences under POCSO and the IT Act. Report at cybercrime.gov.in. Also: Cyber Crime Laws India IT Act.

Also read: Women Safety Lawyers Visakhapatnam | Domestic Violence Act Rights | Free Legal Aid in AP

📍 30-6-12, First Floor, Daba Gardens, Visakhapatnam 530020 | 📞 +91 99495 92127 | 🌐 19lawchambers.com | 📺 @19LawChambers

May 21, 2026 0 comments

CIBIL score dispute correction India credit report error - 19 Law Chambers Visakhapatnam

Banking & Finance Law

CIBIL Score Dispute and Correction in India: Complete Guide

by Ganta Surya Kiran May 21, 2026

written by Ganta Surya Kiran

CIBIL Score Dispute and Correction in India: Complete Guide

By Advocate Ganta Surya Kiran | 19 Law Chambers, Visakhapatnam | Banking Law

A wrong entry in your CIBIL credit report can destroy your loan eligibility, affect your business, and damage your reputation even if you have never defaulted on a payment. Banks regularly report incorrect NPA entries, settled loans as outstanding, and fraudulent accounts opened in your name. Knowing how to dispute and correct CIBIL errors is essential.

Common CIBIL Errors That Can Be Disputed

Wrong NPA Entry: Your loan account is marked as Non-Performing Asset (NPA) even though you have been paying regularly. Settled Loan Shown as Outstanding: You paid off a loan but it still shows as outstanding or in default. Fraudulent Account: Someone opened a loan or credit card in your name using your identity identity theft. Read: Cyber Crime Laws India IT Act. Wrong “Written Off” Entry: Bank has written off your account in their books but you actually paid — the write-off shows in your CIBIL even though the loan was cleared. Duplicate Entry: Same loan appears twice in your report.

Step-by-Step CIBIL Dispute Process

Get your free CIBIL report at cibil.com. Review every entry carefully.
File online dispute at cibil.com/dispute selecting the specific account and nature of error.
CIBIL forwards dispute to the credit institution (bank or NBFC). Bank has 30 days to respond. If bank confirms the error CIBIL updates your report. If bank disputes you must take it up directly with the bank.
Send a written complaint to the bank’s Grievance Officer with all payment proof bank statements, payment receipts, NOC (No Objection Certificate) if loan was cleared.
If bank fails to respond within 30 days or refuses to correct file complaint with the RBI Banking Ombudsman at cms.rbi.org.in.
File a consumer court complaint against the bank for deficiency of service in maintaining wrong credit records. Consumer courts regularly award compensation for CIBIL-related suffering. Full guide: Consumer Court Complaint India.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long do negative entries stay in CIBIL report?
Typically 7 years from the date of default even after the loan is paid. Settled accounts (not paid in full) remain for 7 years. Once corrected through dispute it is updated within 30 days.

Q: Can I remove a legitimate NPA entry from CIBIL?
If the NPA was genuinely due to a default it cannot be fully removed. However, once you repay and get a NOC from the bank the status updates from “NPA” to “Closed” which improves your score significantly over time.

Q: What if bank refuses to issue NOC after full repayment?
Bank is legally obligated to issue NOC after full repayment. File RBI complaint at cms.rbi.org.in and consumer court complaint. Also: Loan Default Rights India. Free legal aid: Free Legal Aid in AP.

Also read: Cheque Bounce Lawyer Vizag | Consumer Court Advocates Vizag | Best Lawyers in Vizag

📍 30-6-12, First Floor, Daba Gardens, Visakhapatnam 530020 | 📞 +91 99495 92127 | 🌐 19lawchambers.com | 📺 @19LawChambers

May 21, 2026 0 comments

Gift deed India property transfer registration stamp duty - 19 Law Chambers Visakhapatnam

Property & Land Law

Gift Deed in India: How to Transfer Property as Gift

by Ganta Surya Kiran May 21, 2026

written by Ganta Surya Kiran

Gift Deed in India: How to Transfer Property as a Gift

By Advocate Ganta Surya Kiran | 19 Law Chambers, Visakhapatnam | Property Law

A gift deed is a legal document through which a property owner voluntarily transfers ownership of immovable property to another person without any monetary consideration. Gift deeds are commonly used to transfer property to children, spouses, or relatives — but they must be properly executed and registered to be legally valid.

What is a Gift Deed?

Under Section 122 of the Transfer of Property Act, 1882 a gift is a transfer of existing, movable or immovable property made voluntarily and without consideration by one person (donor) to another (donee). For immovable property — the gift must be in writing (gift deed), signed by the donor, attested by two witnesses, and registered at the Sub-Registrar’s Office.

When to Use a Gift Deed

Transferring property to children during lifetime (instead of through will), transferring property to spouse, giving property to charity or religious institution, transferring property to avoid family disputes after death, and estate planning to reduce inheritance tax implications.

Gift Deed vs Will — Key Differences

A Gift Deed transfers property immediately during the donor’s lifetime the donee becomes owner from the date of registration. A Will transfers property only after the testator’s death and requires probate. Gift deeds are better when you want to ensure the specific person gets the property without disputes after your death. Wills are better when you want to retain use of the property during your lifetime.

How to Execute and Register a Gift Deed in AP

Step 1: Draft the gift deed clearly describing: donor and donee details, complete property description with survey number, consideration (nil in case of gift), and that it is a voluntary transfer without coercion.

Step 2: Calculate stamp duty in Andhra Pradesh, gift deeds to blood relatives (parents, children, spouse, siblings) attract lower stamp duty compared to gifts to non-relatives. Check current rates at registration.ap.gov.in.

Step 3: Both donor and donee must appear at the Sub-Registrar’s Office with original documents, identity proof, and two witnesses. The donee must accept the gift acceptance is essential for a valid gift.

Step 4: After registration update patta in the donee’s name at the Tahsildar office. Guide: Patta Mutation Andhra Pradesh.

Can a Gift Deed Be Cancelled?

A gift deed once registered is generally irrevocable the donor cannot take back the gifted property without the donee’s consent. Exception: if the gift was made under coercion, undue influence, or fraud the donor can file a suit to cancel the gift deed. Senior citizens who gift property expecting maintenance can get gift deeds revoked under the Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act if maintenance is denied. Read: Senior Citizen Legal Rights India.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is stamp duty payable on gift deed in AP?
Yes — stamp duty applies. For gifts to blood relatives reduced rates. For gifts to non-relatives full stamp duty (similar to sale deed rates). Check current rates at registration.ap.gov.in.

Q: Is a gift deed taxable for the recipient?
Gift from blood relatives is tax-exempt regardless of amount. Gift from non-relatives exceeding Rs 50,000 in a year is taxable as “Income from Other Sources.” Consult a tax adviser.

Q: Can gift deed be challenged in court?
Yes — by other legal heirs claiming the gift was made under undue influence, coercion, or that the donor lacked mental capacity. Full property guide: Property Documents Verification India. Free legal aid: NALSA — nalsa.gov.in.

Also read: Property Partition Suit India | Power of Attorney India Property | Hindu Succession Act Daughters Rights

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May 21, 2026 0 comments

Contempt of court India civil criminal punishment Contempt of Courts Act - 19 Law Chambers Visakhapatnam

Legal Awareness

Contempt of Court in India: Types, Punishment & Defence

by Ganta Surya Kiran May 21, 2026

written by Ganta Surya Kiran

Contempt of Court in India: Types, Punishment and Defence

By Advocate Ganta Surya Kiran | 19 Law Chambers, Visakhapatnam | Legal Awareness

When someone disobeys a court order refuses to pay court-ordered maintenance, violates an injunction, or continues construction despite a stay order contempt of court proceedings are a powerful remedy. Understanding contempt law helps you both enforce court orders against others and defend yourself against contempt allegations.

What is Contempt of Court?

Contempt of court is any act that disrespects, disobeys, or interferes with the authority of the court or its orders. It is governed by the Contempt of Courts Act, 1971 and the inherent powers of the High Court under Article 215 of the Constitution.

Types of Contempt

Civil Contempt: Wilful disobedience of any judgment, decree, order, or undertaking given to the court. Most common examples: refusing to pay court-ordered maintenance, violating injunction orders, continuing construction despite stay, refusing to hand over custody of child as per court order, and not paying decreed amounts. Punishment: imprisonment up to 6 months, fine up to Rs 2,000, or both.

Criminal Contempt: Publishing content that scandalises the court, prejudices the outcome of ongoing cases (sub judice), or interferes with the administration of justice. Punishment: imprisonment up to 6 months, fine up to Rs 2,000, or both.

How to File Contempt Petition

If someone is disobeying a court order against you: file a contempt petition before the same court that passed the original order (or the High Court). Attach the original order and evidence of disobedience. The contemnor is summoned to explain why they should not be punished for contempt. If found guilty — court passes punishment.

Common Situations in Family Law — Contempt

When a spouse refuses to pay court-ordered maintenance file contempt. Parent refuses to hand over the child for visitation as per court order file contempt before the Family Court Visakhapatnam. When the husband violates a domestic violence protection order file contempt. Read: Wife Maintenance Rights Section 125 CrPC | Child Custody Rights India | Domestic Violence Act Rights.

Defences Against Contempt Allegations

Inability to comply (genuine financial incapacity, not wilful default), the order was ambiguous and the party interpreted it differently, the order was already complied with, or the order was obtained by fraud. Courts distinguish between wilful disobedience and genuine inability to comply — only wilful disobedience is punishable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I be jailed for contempt even in a civil matter?
Yes — civil contempt carries imprisonment up to 6 months. However courts first warn the contemnor and give opportunity to comply before imposing imprisonment.

Q: What if the other party files a false contempt petition against me?
File a counter-affidavit clearly explaining compliance. If contempt allegations are false and malicious — courts impose costs on the petitioner. Contact us immediately: Best Criminal Lawyers Vizag. Free legal aid: NALSA — nalsa.gov.in.

Also read: FIR Quashing Petition High Court AP | Writ Petition High Court AP | Best Lawyers in Vizag

📍 30-6-12, First Floor, Daba Gardens, Visakhapatnam 530020 | 📞 +91 99495 92127 | 🌐 19lawchambers.com | 📺 @19LawChambers

May 21, 2026 0 comments

Stamp duty registration charges Andhra Pradesh 2025 sale deed gift deed - 19 Law Chambers Visakhapatnam

Property & Land Law

Stamp Duty and Registration Charges in Andhra Pradesh 2025

by Ganta Surya Kiran May 21, 2026

written by Ganta Surya Kiran

Stamp Duty and Registration Charges in Andhra Pradesh 2025

By Advocate Ganta Surya Kiran | 19 Law Chambers, Visakhapatnam | Property Law

Before buying or transferring property in Andhra Pradesh — knowing the exact stamp duty and registration charges helps you budget accurately and avoid surprises at the Sub-Registrar’s Office. This guide covers current stamp duty rates for all major property transactions in AP.

How Stamp Duty is Calculated in AP

Stamp duty in Andhra Pradesh is calculated on the market value of the property or the consideration amount — whichever is higher. Market value is fixed by the state government through Guideline Value (IGR Value) for each location. Check guideline values at registration.ap.gov.in.

Stamp Duty and Registration Charges — AP 2025

Sale Deed (Purchase of Property): Stamp Duty: 5% of market value. Registration Fee: 1% of market value. Transfer Duty: 1.5% of market value. Total: 7.5% of property market value.

Example: Buying a property worth Rs 50 lakh in Visakhapatnam total government charges = Rs 3,75,000.

Gift Deed — Blood Relatives (Spouse, Parents, Children, Siblings): Stamp Duty: 2%. Registration Fee: 0.5%. Transfer Duty: 1.5%. Total: 4% (significant saving compared to sale deed).

Gift Deed — Non-Relatives: Same as sale deed 7.5% total.

Partition Deed: If partition is among family members 1% on market value of the property received by each party.

Mortgage Deed: 0.5% of the loan amount secured by the mortgage — maximum cap applies. Check current rates at registration.ap.gov.in.

Lease Deed: Depends on lease duration and rent amount ranges from 0.4% to 5% of total rent payable.

Settlement Deed (Will-type Settlement): 2% for transfers within immediate family. Higher for others.

How to Pay Stamp Duty in AP

Pay online through the CFMS (Comprehensive Financial Management System) portal linked from registration.ap.gov.in. Select the document type, enter property details, calculate the stamp duty, pay online, and download the payment challan. Present the challan at the Sub-Registrar’s Office on the registration date.

Exemptions and Concessions

Women buyers: some states offer stamp duty concessions for women check current AP government notification. Agricultural land: different rates may apply. Affordable housing: concessional rates for properties below certain thresholds.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can stamp duty be paid in cash at the SRO?
>>>>>>> No — stamp duty must be paid online through CFMS before the registration appointment. The system then generates an e-stamp certificate that is verified at the SRO.

Q: What happens if stamp duty is underpaid?
The Sub-Registrar refers the property for market value assessment. If underpaid demand notice is issued with penalty up to 200% of deficient stamp duty. Always pay on the correct market value.

Q: Are there any stamp duty exemptions in AP?
Certain transactions like first mortgages for agricultural loans, transfers to government bodies, and some cooperative housing society transactions have exemptions. Verify specific exemptions at registration.ap.gov.in.

Also read: Land Registration Process AP | Gift Deed India Property Transfer | Encumbrance Certificate AP | Property Documents Verification India

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Disclaimer: Stamp duty rates may change. Always verify current rates at registration.ap.gov.in before your transaction.

May 21, 2026 0 comments

Online fraud complaint India cybercrime portal 1930 helpline - 19 Law Chambers Vizag

Criminal & Police Rights

Online Fraud Complaint in India: How to Report & Recover Money

by Ganta Surya Kiran May 20, 2026

written by Ganta Surya Kiran

Online Fraud Complaint in India: How to Report and Recover Money

By Advocate Ganta Surya Kiran | 19 Law Chambers, Visakhapatnam | Cyber Crime

India reported over 10 lakh cyber crime complaints in 2023 alone — and the numbers keep rising in Visakhapatnam and across Andhra Pradesh. Whether you lost money through UPI fraud, fake investment schemes, online shopping fraud, or job scams — immediate action dramatically improves your chances of recovery. This guide tells you exactly what to do.

Step 1 — Call 1930 Immediately

1930 is the National Cyber Crime Helpline. Call within the first few hours of the fraud. Trained officers can freeze the fraudster’s account before the money is withdrawn. This is your single most important action — do not delay.

Step 2 — Report at cybercrime.gov.in

File a complaint at cybercrime.gov.in — the official National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal. Select “Financial Fraud” under category. Enter all transaction details, fraudster’s contact details, screenshots, and bank account details if known. Save your complaint number.

Step 3 — Contact Your Bank

Call your bank’s customer care immediately and report the fraud. Ask for a chargeback or freeze of the fraudulent transaction. Banks have a 24-hour window to initiate recovery in many UPI fraud cases. Full UPI fraud guide: UPI Fraud Complaint India — Get Your Money Back.

Step 4 — File Police FIR at Cyber Crime Station Vizag

Visit the Cyber Crime Police Station, Visakhapatnam with: screenshots of fraudulent transactions, bank statements, all communication with fraudster, and your complaint number from cybercrime.gov.in. Police will register an FIR and begin investigation.

Step 5 — File RBI Banking Ombudsman Complaint

If your bank is unresponsive or refuses to help — file a complaint at cms.rbi.org.in. The RBI Ombudsman can direct the bank to refund losses due to bank negligence.

Common Types of Online Fraud in Vizag

UPI/OTP fraud — fake customer care calls, QR code scams. Investment fraud — fake stock tips, cryptocurrency scams. Job fraud — fake job offers requiring advance fees. Online shopping fraud — fake websites, non-delivery. Loan app harassment — illegal apps using threats and morphed photos.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I recover money after online fraud in India? Yes — if you report quickly. The RBI provides zero liability protection if you report bank-negligence fraud within 3 days. After 24 hours, recovery chances decrease significantly. Act immediately.

Q: Is online fraud a criminal offence in India? Yes — under IT Act Sections 66C (identity theft) and 66D (cheating by impersonation) and IPC/BNS Section 420 (cheating). Punishment up to 7 years imprisonment. File FIR at Cyber Crime Police Station Visakhapatnam.

Q: What if police refuse to register my cyber crime FIR? Approach the Superintendent of Police or Magistrate under Section 156(3) CrPC. We assist victims in forcing FIR registration. Also: Best Cyber Crime Lawyers in Vizag | Free Legal Aid in AP

Also read: Police Arrest Rights in India | How to File FIR India

📍 30-6-12, First Floor, Opp. Prema Samajam, Daba Gardens, Visakhapatnam — 530020 📞 +91 99495 92127 | 19lawchambers.com | @19LawChambers

Disclaimer: This article is for general legal education only. Please consult a qualified advocate before taking any legal action.

May 20, 2026 0 comments

Patta mutation Andhra Pradesh meebhoomi - Land records transfer AP - 19 Law Chambers Vizag

Property & Land Law

Patta Mutation in Andhra Pradesh: How to Transfer Land Records

by Ganta Surya Kiran May 20, 2026

written by Ganta Surya Kiran

Patta Mutation in Andhra Pradesh: How to Transfer Land Records After Registration

By Advocate Ganta Surya Kiran | 19 Law Chambers, Visakhapatnam | Property Law

Many buyers in Andhra Pradesh make a critical mistake — they register their property at the Sub-Registrar’s Office and think the job is done. It is not. Registration only creates a legal document of ownership. Patta mutation is a separate process that updates the government’s revenue records to reflect the new owner. Without patta mutation, property tax bills keep coming in the old owner’s name and future transactions face serious complications.

What is Patta Mutation?

Patta is the revenue record maintained by the Tahsildar’s office showing who the government recognises as the owner of agricultural and non-agricultural land. Mutation is the process of transferring the patta from the old owner to the new owner after a sale, gift, inheritance, or court decree.

When is Patta Mutation Required?

After purchase of land or property through sale deed, after receiving property as a gift, after inheriting property following the owner’s death, after a court decree in your favour, and after partition of joint family property.

How to Apply for Patta Mutation in AP

Step 1: Collect the required documents: certified copy of registered sale deed, old patta in the previous owner’s name, Aadhaar card of the new owner, and application form.

Step 2: Submit the application at the Tahsildar’s office or Meeseva centre of the mandal where the property is located. In Visakhapatnam — submit at the relevant Mandal Revenue Office (MRO).

Step 3: The Village Revenue Officer (VRO) conducts a field verification of the property and submits a report to the Tahsildar.

Step 4: The Tahsildar reviews the application, verifies documents, and passes mutation orders within 30 days. The patta is updated in the new owner’s name.

Step 5: Verify the updated patta on meebhoomi.ap.gov.in.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the time limit for patta mutation in AP? You should apply within 90 days of registration. While there is no strict legal penalty for delay, early mutation prevents complications with property tax, bank loans, and future transactions.

Q: What if my patta mutation is rejected? File an appeal before the Revenue Divisional Officer (RDO). If rejected again — approach the District Collector. For complex disputes, consult Advocate Ganta Surya Kiran at 19 Law Chambers.

Q: Can I check patta mutation status online in AP? Yes — check at meebhoomi.ap.gov.in under “View Patta” or “Pahani” using your survey number and district details.

Also read: Land Registration Process in AP | Property Documents Verification India | Encumbrance Certificate AP | Best Property Lawyers Vizag

📍 30-6-12, First Floor, Opp. Prema Samajam, Daba Gardens, Visakhapatnam — 530020 📞 +91 99495 92127 | 19lawchambers.com | @19LawChambers

May 20, 2026 0 comments

Section 498A IPC dowry harassment rights and FIR process India - 19 Law Chambers Visakhapatnam

Family Law

Section 498A IPC Dowry Harassment | 19 Law Chambers

by Ganta Surya Kiran May 20, 2026

written by Ganta Surya Kiran

Section 498A IPC: Dowry Harassment — Rights, FIR Process and Defence Guide

By Advocate Ganta Surya Kiran | 19 Law Chambers, Visakhapatnam | Family Law

Dowry harassment is one of the most serious matrimonial offences under Indian law. Section 498A of the Indian Penal Code (now under Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita) makes cruelty by husband or his relatives a criminal offence — punishable with imprisonment up to 3 years. Advocate Ganta Surya Kiran at 19 Law Chambers Visakhapatnam represents both victims and accused in 498A cases across Andhra Pradesh.

What is Section 498A IPC?

Section 498A IPC makes it a criminal offence when a husband or his relatives subject a wife to cruelty. Cruelty under 498A includes: physical or mental harassment that endangers the wife’s health or life, harassment to meet unlawful dowry demands, persistent demands for property or valuable security, and psychological abuse that drives the wife to contemplate suicide.

It is a cognizable, non-bailable, and non-compoundable offence — meaning police must register FIR, bail is not automatic, and the complaint cannot be withdrawn once filed (requires court permission).

Rights of the Victim — How to File 498A FIR

If you are facing dowry harassment — visit the nearest police station and file an FIR under Section 498A IPC and Section 3/4 of the Dowry Prohibition Act 1961. Carry evidence of demands made — messages, emails, call recordings, medical records of injuries, and witness statements. Simultaneously file for protection under the Domestic Violence Act 2005 — you can get a protection order and monetary relief on the very first court hearing. Claim maintenance under Section 125 CrPC for financial support during proceedings.

Rights of the Accused — Defence in 498A Cases

498A is frequently misused in matrimonial disputes. If you are falsely accused — contact Advocate Ganta Surya Kiran immediately for: anticipatory bail to prevent arrest, FIR quashing petition before High Court of AP if allegations are false and malicious, and strong trial defence including cross-examination of witnesses and challenging evidence. See: Anticipatory Bail in India and Best Criminal Lawyers in Vizag.

The Supreme Court in Arnesh Kumar v. State of Bihar (2014) directed that police cannot arrest accused in 498A cases without following the checklist under Section 41 CrPC — reducing arbitrary arrests.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can a 498A case be withdrawn after filing? 498A is non-compoundable — it cannot be withdrawn by the complainant alone. However, the High Court can quash the FIR under Section 482 CrPC if parties reach a genuine settlement. Courts increasingly allow quashing in 498A cases where parties have settled matrimonial disputes. Free legal aid: NALSA — nalsa.gov.in.

Q: Can the husband’s parents be arrested in a 498A case? Yes — 498A applies to husband and his relatives. However, police cannot arrest relatives automatically. The Supreme Court in Social Action Forum v. Union of India directed that only named accused with specific allegations should be arrested.

Q: What evidence is needed for a 498A case? Medical records showing injuries, screenshots of threatening messages, audio or video recordings, witness statements from neighbours or relatives, and documentary evidence of dowry demands.

Also read: Divorce Procedure in India | Women Safety Lawyers Visakhapatnam | External: Dowry Prohibition Act — indiacode.nic.in

📍 30-6-12, First Floor, Opp. Prema Samajam, Daba Gardens, Visakhapatnam — 530020 📞 +91 99495 92127 | 🌐 19lawchambers.com | 📺 @19LawChambers

May 20, 2026 0 comments

Insurance claim rejected India IRDAI complaint process - 19 Law Chambers Visakhapatnam

Banking & Finance Law

Insurance Claim Rejected? How to Complain and Get Your Money

by Ganta Surya Kiran May 20, 2026

written by Ganta Surya Kiran

Property Partition Suit in India: How to Divide Family Property

By Advocate Ganta Surya Kiran | 19 Law Chambers, Visakhapatnam | Property Law

Family property disputes are among the most emotionally charged and legally complex cases in India. When joint family members cannot agree on how to divide ancestral property — a partition suit before the District Court becomes necessary. Advocate Ganta Surya Kiran at 19 Law Chambers has successfully handled hundreds of partition matters across Visakhapatnam and Andhra Pradesh.

What is a Partition Suit?

A partition suit is a civil suit filed before the District Court seeking division of jointly held property among co-owners or coparceners. Any co-owner has the absolute right to demand partition at any time — this right cannot be waived permanently. The court either facilitates an agreed partition or orders a physical division (metes and bounds) or sale and distribution of proceeds.

Who Can File a Partition Suit?

Any coparcener (equal shareholder) in Hindu Undivided Family (HUF) property — including daughters after the 2005 amendment. Read: Hindu Succession Act Daughters Rights. Any co-owner of jointly held property. A legal heir after the death of an ancestral property holder without a will.

Step-by-Step Partition Suit Process

Step 1 — Attempt Negotiation First: Before filing suit, attempt a negotiated family settlement. If successful, execute a registered Partition Deed at the Sub-Registrar’s Office. This is the fastest and cheapest solution — we mediate family property settlements regularly at 19 Law Chambers.

Step 2 — File Partition Suit: If negotiation fails — file a civil suit before the District Court of Visakhapatnam (or the district where the property is located). The plaint must describe all properties, all parties, their relationship, and the share claimed.

Step 3 — Court Issues Notice: Court issues summons to all defendants (other co-owners). They file written statements accepting or contesting the partition.

Step 4 — Evidence and Arguments: Both sides present documents — title deeds, patta, EC, revenue records — and witness testimony. Courts also appoint a Commissioner to inspect and value the property.

Step 5 — Preliminary and Final Decrees: The court first passes a Preliminary Decree declaring shares. Then a Final Decree specifying exactly which portion goes to whom or ordering sale if physical division is not feasible.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can one family member block partition of ancestral property? No — every coparcener has an absolute right to demand partition. No one can permanently block partition. However, they can contest the shares claimed by other parties.

Q: How long does a partition suit take in India? Uncontested partition with cooperation: 6 to 18 months. Contested partition: 3 to 7 years depending on complexity. Mediation can significantly reduce this timeline. Check property documents: Property Documents Verification India.

Q: What is a Partition Deed and do I need to register it? A Partition Deed is a document signed by all parties agreeing to the division. It must be registered at the Sub-Registrar’s Office to be legally valid. Stamp duty applies. After registration — update patta: Patta Mutation Andhra Pradesh.

Also read: Land Registration Process AP | Encumbrance Certificate AP | External: CPC Order 20 — indiacode.nic.in

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May 20, 2026 0 comments

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