Short Answer

Yes, a cooperative society can charge extra fees for using additional utilities like running private air conditioners.

Detailed Explanation

Rule 129 of the Gujarat Cooperative Societies Rules, 1965 allows cooperative societies to levy charges for additional facilities or services provided to members. This means that societies can charge extra fees for using additional utilities beyond the standard services provided by the society. In practice, this provision enables societies to recover the costs associated with providing and maintaining these additional utilities.

For example, if a member installs a private air conditioner in their unit and consumes more electricity than the standard allocation, the society can charge them an additional fee to cover the increased electricity usage. This ensures that the burden of the increased utility consumption is borne by the member responsible for it, rather than the entire society.

Another scenario could involve a member installing a water purifier that requires additional water usage. In such cases, the society can charge the member for the extra water consumed due to the water purifier. This helps in maintaining a fair distribution of utility costs among members based on their individual usage patterns.

The process for charging extra fees for additional utilities typically involves the society passing a resolution in a general body meeting to approve the charges. The details of the charges, the rationale behind them, and the method of collection should be clearly communicated to all members to ensure transparency and accountability.

Reference

• Rule 129 of the Gujarat Cooperative Societies Rules, 1965

• Official PDF