Short Answer

Yes, as a member of a cooperative society in Gujarat, you have the right to request a breakdown of the society's common-area usage if your electricity bill is high.

Detailed Explanation

Section 61 of the Gujarat Cooperative Societies Act, 1961 empowers members to inspect and obtain copies of the society's books of accounts, registers, and other documents. This means that as a member, you have the legal right to access information regarding the society's financial transactions, including common-area usage expenses.

Rule 64 of the Gujarat Cooperative Societies Rules, 1965 further elaborates on the procedure for members to inspect society records. It states that a member can make a written request to the society for inspection, and the society must provide access within a specified time frame. Therefore, you can formally request a breakdown of common-area usage related to electricity consumption from the society.

In practice, you can submit a written request to the society's management committee or secretary asking for the breakdown of common-area electricity usage. The society is obligated to provide you with the necessary information within the stipulated time frame as per the rules.

Real-world Scenarios

• Scenario 1: Mr. Patel notices a significant increase in his electricity bill and suspects that the common-area usage may be a contributing factor. He submits a written request to the society's secretary under Section 61 of the Act, seeking a detailed breakdown of common-area electricity consumption.

• Scenario 2: Ms. Shah, a member of a cooperative society, faces a sudden spike in her electricity charges. She exercises her right under Rule 64 of the Rules and formally requests the society to provide her with a breakdown of common-area electricity usage.

Overall, the Gujarat Cooperative Societies Act and Rules ensure transparency and accountability within cooperative societies by granting members the right to access financial information, including common-area usage breakdowns.

References

• Section 61 of the Gujarat Cooperative Societies Act, 1961: Official PDF

• Rule 64 of the Gujarat Cooperative Societies Rules, 1965: Official PDF