The GPA holders can get the flats (membership of the society) transferred in their name by paying Rs 50,000 for Category 'A' flats, Rs 25,000 for Category 'B' flats and Rs 15,000 for Category 'C' flats.

"This was a long-standing demand of the GPA holders and several federations of group housing societies had met me in this regard. To resolve the issue, we formulated the policy and finally got the approval of the UT Administrator. Over 15,000 households shall benefit from the decision," said UT Secretary (Home-cum-Co-operation) Ram Niwas.

The transfer of share certificate will only be limited to those people, who are valid GPA holders given by a member of the society. "A Registered Will of a member of the society in favour of the GPA holder will be desirable, but not mandatory," the notification states.

Earlier, the UT Administration had proposed charging a transfer fee between Rs 3.8 lakh and Rs 5.25 lakh, depending on the category of flats. However, the Administration could not find any takers for the scheme.

General Secretary of the Chandigarh Social Welfare Council, Satish Chandra Sharma, welcomed the move saying: "The measure was long due and seemed lost in administrative rigmarole. Now, the Administration has finally provided succour to the families by correcting its earlier stand." He also reiterated the council's demands pertaining to hassle-free transfer of flats and minimal paperwork.