Short Answer

A member in Gujarat Cooperative Societies Act can contest in society elections immediately after joining without any tenure requirement.

Detailed Explanation

Section 30 of the Gujarat Cooperative Societies Act, 1961 governs the eligibility criteria for contesting in society elections. This section clearly states that a person becomes a member of a cooperative society upon the acceptance of his application by the society. There is no specific requirement for a minimum tenure before a member can contest in society elections. Therefore, a new member can participate in elections right after joining the society.

In practice, this provision ensures that the cooperative society remains inclusive and allows new members to actively participate in the democratic process of electing office bearers. It promotes transparency and accountability within the society by giving all members, regardless of their tenure, the opportunity to contest in elections.

Real-world Scenarios

• Scenario 1: Mr. Patel joins a cooperative society and immediately expresses his interest in contesting for a position in the upcoming elections. As per Section 30 of the Act, he is eligible to participate in the election process without any tenure requirement.

• Scenario 2: A group of new members collectively decides to nominate a candidate to represent their interests in the society's management committee. They can do so immediately after becoming members, in accordance with the Act.

Reference

• Section 30 of the Gujarat Cooperative Societies Act, 1961: Official PDF