The Delhi Development Authority (DDA) has temporarily stopped the conversion of leasehold properties to freehold across the national capital. This suspension has been in effect since January 2, 2026, following a directive from the Union Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA). The halt is intended to allow for a comprehensive review of existing policies, conversion rates, and administrative procedures to make them more transparent and citizen-friendly.
Why has the DDA stopped fresh applications?
The conversion process is currently under review by MoHUA to simplify procedures and rationalize rates. The DDA’s online portal has been non-functional for new applications for three months. Officials are specifically looking at the implications of adopting the Delhi government’s circle rates for calculating conversion charges, similar to the Land and Development Office (L&DO). Since residential conversion rates haven’t seen a major update since 2011, the ministry aims to create a more uniform framework for land-owning agencies in the city.
How does this impact property owners in Delhi?
Thousands of homeowners are facing difficulties because a freehold status is often a mandatory requirement for selling, transferring, or mortgaging a property. Without this conversion, many real estate transactions in Delhi are currently on hold. Public grievances have been submitted to the authorities requesting a clear timeline for the resumption of services. DDA officials have stated that a new policy will be notified shortly and have requested citizens to remain patient during this interim period.
| Key Detail | Current Status |
|---|---|
| Fresh Applications | Frozen since January 2, 2026 |
| Reviewing Authority | Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) |
| Last Residential Rate Update | 2011 |
| Portal Status | Non-functional for new conversion requests |
| Main Goal | Rationalize rates and simplify procedures |
