Short Answer

Associate (family) members of a cooperative society have limited rights compared to regular members. They can participate in meetings but usually do not have voting rights.

Detailed Explanation

Section 23 of the Gujarat Cooperative Societies Act, 1961 addresses the rights of associate members. It states that associate members have limited rights as compared to regular members. Associate members can participate in meetings but usually do not have the right to vote on decisions. This means that while they can attend meetings and express their opinions, they do not have the power to influence the final decisions of the society.

Rule 20 of the Gujarat Cooperative Societies Rules, 1965 further elaborates on the role of associate members in meetings. It specifies that associate members can attend general body meetings and express their views on the matters being discussed. However, unless specifically granted voting rights by the society's bylaws, associate members typically do not have the authority to cast votes on resolutions or elections.

In practice, associate members are usually family members of regular members who are allowed to participate in the cooperative society's activities but do not hold the same level of decision-making power. For example, in a housing cooperative, the spouse or children of a regular member may be designated as associate members, enabling them to attend meetings and stay informed about the society's affairs without having voting rights.

Overall, while associate members can participate in meetings and contribute their perspectives, their ability to influence the outcomes of decisions is usually limited due to their lack of voting rights.

Reference

• Gujarat Cooperative Societies Act, 1961: Section 23

• Gujarat Cooperative Societies Rules, 1965: Rule 20