Short Answer

Yes, members can file a complaint if the society's maintenance spending appears excessive or wasteful.

Detailed Explanation

Section 73 of the Gujarat Cooperative Societies Act, 1961 empowers the Registrar to inquire into complaints regarding the management of a cooperative society. If members believe that the society's maintenance spending is excessive or wasteful, they can file a complaint with the Registrar for investigation. The Registrar has the authority to examine the society's accounts, records, and transactions to determine the validity of the complaint.

Furthermore, Rule 123 of the Gujarat Cooperative Societies Rules, 1965 outlines the procedure for filing complaints with the Registrar. Members need to submit a written complaint detailing the specific instances of excessive or wasteful maintenance spending. The Registrar will then initiate an inquiry to assess the allegations and take necessary action based on the findings.

In practice, if members suspect mismanagement or irregularities in maintenance spending, they should gather evidence to support their complaint. This could include financial records, invoices, maintenance contracts, and any other relevant documentation. By following the prescribed procedure and providing concrete evidence, members can effectively address concerns about excessive or wasteful maintenance spending in the society.

Practical Examples

• Scenario 1: A cooperative housing society's members notice a sudden increase in maintenance charges without any corresponding improvement in services or facilities. They file a complaint with the Registrar citing specific instances of excessive spending on maintenance.

• Scenario 2: A society's maintenance committee is suspected of awarding contracts to related parties at inflated prices, leading to wasteful expenditure. Members raise this issue with the Registrar through a formal complaint, triggering an investigation into the matter.

• Scenario 3: A society's maintenance fund is being used for non-essential expenses, causing concern among members. They submit a detailed complaint to the Registrar, prompting a thorough examination of the maintenance spending practices.

References

• Section 73 of the Gujarat Cooperative Societies Act, 1961: Official PDF

• Rule 123 of the Gujarat Cooperative Societies Rules, 1965: Official PDF