Short Answer

Yes, there are term limits and restrictions on how many times a person can be elected in Gujarat Cooperative Societies.

Detailed Explanation

Section 73 of the Gujarat Cooperative Societies Act, 1961 addresses the term limits for committee members. It states that the term of office for a committee member shall not exceed five years. This means that a person can serve as a committee member for a maximum of five years in a cooperative society. After the completion of the term, the member must go through the election process again to continue serving on the committee.

Rule 56 of the Gujarat Cooperative Societies Rules, 1965 further elaborates on the restrictions on re-election. It mentions that a committee member who has completed two consecutive terms in office shall not be eligible for re-election unless a period of three years has elapsed since the expiry of the second term. This rule ensures that there is a break in the continuity of service to promote fresh participation and prevent concentration of power within the committee.

In practice, these provisions help in ensuring democratic representation within cooperative societies by allowing for regular turnover of committee members. It prevents individuals from holding onto power indefinitely and encourages the participation of a diverse range of members in the decision-making process. By limiting the number of consecutive terms a person can serve, the Act and Rules aim to promote transparency, accountability, and fair governance within cooperative societies.

Practical Examples

• Mr. Patel has been serving on the committee of a cooperative society for two consecutive terms, totaling five years. As per Rule 56, he is not eligible for re-election immediately. He must wait for three years before he can contest for a committee position again.

• Ms. Shah has been a committee member for three years and wishes to continue serving. She can stand for re-election for up to two more terms, ensuring a maximum of five years in office as per Section 73 of the Act.

• In a cooperative society where there is a healthy turnover of committee members, different individuals bring in fresh perspectives and ideas, leading to better decision-making processes and overall governance.

References

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

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