Short Answer

Yes, a society can require proof of a tenant's identity before recognizing them as occupants.

Detailed Explanation

Rule 90 of the Gujarat Cooperative Societies Rules, 1965 empowers cooperative housing societies to demand proof of identity from tenants before recognizing them as occupants. This rule ensures that societies can maintain proper records of individuals residing in their premises, enhancing security and accountability. In practice, societies may ask for documents such as Aadhaar card, passport, or any other government-issued identification to verify the tenant's identity.

Furthermore, Section 73 of the Gujarat Cooperative Societies Act, 1961 provides societies with the authority to make by-laws for the management of their affairs, including rules related to the occupancy of premises. By incorporating a provision for verifying tenant identities in their by-laws, societies can establish a standardized procedure for admitting occupants and safeguarding the interests of all members.

In real-world scenarios, this requirement for proof of identity helps prevent unauthorized occupants from residing in society premises, reducing the risk of security breaches or disputes. It also enables societies to maintain accurate records of tenants, facilitating efficient communication and management within the community.

Practical Examples

• Scenario 1: A cooperative housing society in Gujarat introduces a new rule mandating that all tenants must submit a copy of their government-issued ID proof for verification before being recognized as occupants. This measure is aimed at enhancing security and ensuring transparency in the society's operations.

• Scenario 2: A dispute arises in a society regarding an unauthorized occupant residing in a member's flat. By enforcing the requirement for proof of identity, the society can easily identify the unauthorized occupant and take necessary action to address the issue in accordance with their by-laws.

• Scenario 3: A society member raises concerns about the lack of documentation for tenants residing in the premises, highlighting the need for stricter verification procedures. By implementing the provision for proof of identity, the society can address these concerns and establish a more structured approach to tenant management.

References

• Rule 90 of the Gujarat Cooperative Societies Rules, 1965: Official PDF

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