Dear Sir,
As you are aware,there was a major scam unearthed in our country a few years ago and the
master-mind was a person named Telgi .In its wake, several heads rolled
including ex-IPS officers, Ministers,etc.More importantly, with a view
to control and prevent further abuse ,misuse and violation of the Stamp
papers printed fraudulently by certain anti-social elements, the court
directed that newer methods of fool-proof printing,sale and distribution
be evolved by respective State Governments.
As a result, you have one method and source of purchasing these in the
State of Tamilnadu whereas in Karnataka it is sold only through certain
Banks' counters. In Maharastra ,Delhi ,A.P.,Gujarat,etc.the system for
sale /purchase is regulated differently.
Coming to the main issue, take care to not purchase any N.J.S.-paper of a
date prior to 2000[since a Learned Member had indicated that old papers
could be used, it was essential to bring this point out].
Hope it is clear for the purpose of our discussion and topic on hand.
Stamp Act strict sensu does not cover any provision regarding 'validity' or genuineness o' of stamp-papers used in execution of documents[the Britishers had no idea of such future possibilities when the Act was first enacted pre-Independent India and later legislators hardly find the time nor attention required to incorporate such vital clauses].
Be that as it may, the Indian Penal Code makes sufficient covering provisions which govern such an aspect of Stamp papers used .
Due care needs to be taken to ascertain the genuineness of stamp-papers purchased .Do buy through Govt-authorized counters/ vendors/bodies.
Best Wishes,
PVR.