Short Answer

Yes, there are special provisions for widows or orphans to become members of a cooperative society after the head of the family dies.

Detailed Explanation

Section 29 of the Gujarat Cooperative Societies Act, 1961 deals with the membership rights of widows or orphans after the death of the head of the family. This section allows the widow or orphan to continue as a member of the cooperative society in place of the deceased member. The widow or orphan can exercise all the rights and privileges that the deceased member would have had if alive.

In practice, this provision ensures that the widow or orphan is not deprived of the benefits and rights associated with the cooperative society membership due to the death of the head of the family. It provides a safeguard for the vulnerable members of the family to maintain their association with the cooperative society.

For example, if the head of a family who was a member of a cooperative society passes away, his widow can step into his shoes and continue as a member, participating in decision-making processes, enjoying benefits, and exercising voting rights as per the deceased member's entitlement.

Another scenario could be if a member of a cooperative society who had orphaned children as beneficiaries passes away, the orphaned children can be recognized as members in place of the deceased parent, ensuring that they are not excluded from the benefits and rights of membership.

Reference

• Section 29 of the Gujarat Cooperative Societies Act, 1961: Official PDF