Short Answer

Yes, the society is required to maintain the members' ledger, and you have the right to obtain a copy.

Detailed Explanation

Section 32 of the Gujarat Cooperative Societies Act, 1961 mandates that every cooperative society must maintain a register of its members. This register, commonly known as the members' ledger, contains details of all the members of the society, including their names, addresses, shareholdings, and other relevant information. The purpose of maintaining this ledger is to ensure transparency and accountability within the society.

In practice, the members' ledger serves as a crucial document for verifying membership status, voting rights, and other related matters. As a member of the society, you have the legal right to inspect the members' ledger and obtain a copy of it upon request. This right is essential for members to verify their details, ensure fair representation, and participate effectively in the society's decision-making processes.

Real-world Scenarios

• Scenario 1: Mr. Patel, a member of a cooperative housing society, wants to confirm his shareholding and voting rights. He can request a copy of the members' ledger to verify his details.

• Scenario 2: A dispute arises within a cooperative society regarding membership status. The members' ledger can be used as an official record to resolve the dispute and clarify membership details.

• Scenario 3: During annual general meetings or elections, members may refer to the members' ledger to ensure that voting rights are allocated correctly and fairly.

Reference

• Section 32 of the Gujarat Cooperative Societies Act, 1961: Official PDF