Short Answer

Any individual who fulfills the eligibility criteria specified in the Gujarat Cooperative Societies Act, 1961 can join as a member of a housing society.

Detailed Explanation

Section 13 of the Gujarat Cooperative Societies Act, 1961 outlines the eligibility criteria for membership in a cooperative society. According to this section, any individual who is competent to contract under the Indian Contract Act, 1872, and who agrees to abide by the society's bylaws can become a member. This means that individuals who are of sound mind, not disqualified by law, and willing to follow the rules of the society can join as members.

Furthermore, Rule 21 of the Gujarat Cooperative Societies Rules, 1965 provides additional details regarding the qualifications for membership. It specifies that a person must be a resident of the area of operation of the society or must have an interest in the society's objectives to be eligible for membership. This rule ensures that members have a genuine connection to the society and its activities.

In practice, the process of becoming a member involves submitting an application to the society along with the required documents and fees. The society's managing committee reviews the application to ensure the applicant meets the eligibility criteria as per the Act and Rules. Once approved, the individual is enrolled as a member and gains voting rights in the society's decision-making processes.

Real-world Scenarios

• Mr. Patel, a resident of the locality where the housing society operates, applies for membership by submitting the necessary forms and documents. After verification by the managing committee, he is accepted as a member and can participate in the society's meetings and decisions.

• Ms. Shah, who supports the social objectives of the housing society, applies for membership even though she does not reside in the society's area of operation. As per Rule 21, her interest in the society's goals makes her eligible for membership, and she is granted membership status.

• Mr. Desai, who is of unsound mind as declared by a competent authority, applies for membership in the housing society. However, his application is rejected as he does not meet the eligibility criteria specified in Section 13 of the Act.

References

• Section 13 of the Gujarat Cooperative Societies Act, 1961: Official PDF

• Rule 21 of the Gujarat Cooperative Societies Rules, 1965: Official PDF