Short Answer

Yes, as per the Gujarat Cooperative Societies Act, 1961, a member can be required to perform labor or services as part of membership in a cooperative society.

Detailed Explanation

Section 30 of the Gujarat Cooperative Societies Act, 1961 empowers cooperative societies to make by-laws regarding the admission, withdrawal, and expulsion of members, as well as the rights and duties of members. This section allows cooperative societies to include provisions requiring members to contribute their labor or services as a condition of membership. In practice, this means that cooperative societies can mandate members to actively participate in the functioning of the society by providing their labor or services.

Furthermore, Rule 33 of the Gujarat Cooperative Societies Rules, 1965 provides guidelines for the by-laws of cooperative societies. These rules specify that the by-laws can include provisions related to the duties of members, including the requirement to perform labor or services for the society. Cooperative societies can outline the specific tasks or services that members are expected to perform and the consequences for non-compliance.

Real-world Scenarios

• A housing cooperative society may require its members to participate in maintenance activities such as cleaning common areas, gardening, or minor repairs.

• An agricultural cooperative society may mandate its members to assist in cultivation activities, harvesting, or marketing of produce.

• A credit cooperative society may ask its members to volunteer in financial record-keeping, organizing events, or promoting the society's services.

Reference

• Section 30 of the Gujarat Cooperative Societies Act, 1961

• Rule 33 of the Gujarat Cooperative Societies Rules, 1965