Short Answer

Active participation, such as meeting attendance, can indeed affect membership in cooperative societies under the Gujarat Cooperative Societies Act, 1961.

Detailed Explanation

Section 27 of the Gujarat Cooperative Societies Act, 1961 addresses the issue of disqualification of members. It states that a member can be disqualified if they fail to attend at least one-fourth of the total number of meetings held in a year. This means that regular attendance at meetings is crucial for maintaining membership status in a cooperative society. Failure to meet this attendance requirement can lead to disqualification, impacting the member's rights within the society.

Furthermore, Rule 56 of the Gujarat Cooperative Societies Rules, 1965 provides additional details regarding the disqualification of members due to non-attendance. It specifies that if a member is disqualified under Section 27 for non-attendance, they lose their right to vote in the affairs of the society. This rule reinforces the importance of active participation, such as meeting attendance, in maintaining membership and voting rights within a cooperative society.

In practice, this requirement for active participation ensures that members are engaged and involved in the decision-making processes of the cooperative society. It promotes accountability, transparency, and democratic functioning within the society. Regular attendance at meetings allows members to contribute their opinions, vote on important matters, and stay informed about the operations of the society.

For example, consider a scenario where a member of a cooperative society consistently fails to attend meetings throughout the year. As per Section 27 and Rule 56, this member may be disqualified and lose their voting rights within the society. This can impact their ability to influence decisions and participate in the governance of the society.

In another scenario, a proactive member who regularly attends meetings and actively participates in discussions and decision-making processes enhances their standing within the cooperative society. Their active involvement not only ensures their continued membership but also strengthens their influence and contribution to the society's functioning.

Overall, the Gujarat Cooperative Societies Act, 1961 and Rules emphasize the importance of active participation, such as meeting attendance, in maintaining membership and voting rights within cooperative societies.

References

• Section 27 of the Gujarat Cooperative Societies Act, 1961: Official PDF

• Rule 56 of the Gujarat Cooperative Societies Rules, 1965: Official PDF