Indicative property rates, based on which Maharashtra levies its stamp duty in Mumbai and other key cities of the state, may fall marginally for the first time in about a decade as real estate transactions drop, according to sources in the revenue ministry.

The property rates in the ready reckoner for Mahrashtra may drop marginally reflecting the subdued sentiments, sources said. A final decision may be taken on Wednesday.

The property ready reckoner is prepared by the office of the inspector general of registration and stamp duties on the basis of transactions in real estate sector in respective areas.

Property prices across key cities of the state have witnessed a decline owing to an economic slowdown that has forced companies to curb expansion plans.

Reflecting depressed sentiments property, transactions have also dipped as buyers anticipate a further softening of prices.

Still, the assurance given by minister of state for revenue Rana Jagjit Singh in the state legislature to maintain status quo has created a piquant situation.

Pune-based Maharashtra Lawyers Association's president M P Bendre this week filed a petition in the Bombay high court requesting the court to direct the state government to publish rates that reflect the market sentiments.

The petition pointed out that the assurance given by Singh amounts to injustice to consumers.