Can revenue authorities change very old land records after this ruling?

No, the Court has signaled that revenue officials cannot reopen long-settled entries after decades. They may correct clerical errors with notice and within reasonable time. Title disputes belong in civil court, which has procedures for evidence, surveys, and appeals, ensuring fairness for all parties.

How does the ruling help homebuyers in Andhra Pradesh?

It reduces the risk of last-minute administrative changes to a land record. Due diligence should be quicker and clearer. Still, buyers must check pattadar passbooks, mutation orders, and encumbrance certificates, and seek legal opinions for boundary or title doubts before paying token money or finalising agreements.

What should I do if there is a title dispute on my property?

File a civil suit rather than seeking administrative revision. Gather core documents like sale deeds, pattadar passbooks, mutation records, and tax receipts. Seek interim protection orders where needed. Avoid delayed petitions to revenue offices for title questions, as those are likely to be rejected after this ruling.

Does this apply outside Andhra Pradesh?

It is binding within Andhra Pradesh. Courts in other states may find the reasoning persuasive, but each state’s land laws and precedents differ. Always check local statutes and judgments, and consult a lawyer before relying on this decision for properties located outside Andhra Pradesh.

Law and Government

January 09: Andhra Pradesh HC Bars 71-Year-Old Land Record Revisions

ByHuzaifa Zahoor January 9, 2026

The Andhra Pradesh High Court has barred reopening a 71-year-old land record, setting aside a 2017 revenue order. The Court held that revenue officials cannot alter long-settled entries and must leave title questions to civil courts. For homebuyers, lenders, and developers in Andhra Pradesh, this strengthens finality in revenue records and reduces title risk. We explain the ruling, its impact on due diligence, pattadar passbooks practice, civil court jurisdiction, and what stakeholders should do next.