Introduction:
Cooperative societies are formed with the objective of promoting the economic and social well-being of their members through mutual aid and cooperation. They are governed by the cooperative laws and regulations of the state in which they are registered. One common question that arises is whether a person can become a member of two cooperative societies, one received through a gift-deed. This question is of particular interest because cooperative societies offer various benefits and privileges to their members, and it is natural for people to seek membership in more than one cooperative society to avail of these benefits. In this article, we will analyze the legal position on this issue and provide a comprehensive answer.
Understanding the legal position on membership in cooperative societies:
Before delving into the specific question of whether a person can become a member of two cooperative societies, it is important to understand the legal position on membership in cooperative societies. Cooperative societies are governed by the cooperative laws and regulations of the state in which they are registered. These laws and regulations lay down the eligibility criteria for becoming a member of a cooperative society. In general, anyone who meets the eligibility criteria laid down by the cooperative laws and regulations can become a member of a cooperative society.
Membership in two cooperative societies:
Coming back to the specific question of whether a person can become a member of two cooperative societies, the answer is not straightforward. The legal position on this issue varies from state to state, and it is important to examine the relevant cooperative laws and regulations in each state. In general, however, it can be said that there is no legal bar on a person becoming a member of two cooperative societies.
Gift-deed and membership in a cooperative society:
The specific aspect of the question regarding membership received through a gift-deed also needs to be examined. In general, the method of acquiring membership in a cooperative society is not relevant to the question of whether a person can become a member of two cooperative societies. Whether a person acquires membership through a gift-deed or through any other means, the legal position on membership in two cooperative societies remains the same.
Limitations on membership in two cooperative societies:
While there is no legal bar on a person becoming a member of two cooperative societies, there may be certain limitations or restrictions imposed by the cooperative laws and regulations of the state. For example, some states may require a person to obtain prior permission from the Registrar of Cooperative Societies before becoming a member of a second cooperative society. Other states may limit the number of cooperative societies that a person can become a member of.
Implications of membership in two cooperative societies:
It is important to note that while there is no legal bar on a person becoming a member of two cooperative societies, there may be practical implications of such membership. For example, a person may not be able to actively participate in the affairs of both societies, as this may result in a conflict of interest. Similarly, a person may find it difficult to devote adequate time and resources to both societies, leading to a suboptimal use of the benefits and privileges offered by the societies.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the question of whether a person can become a member of two cooperative societies, one received through a gift-deed, is a complex issue that depends on the relevant cooperative laws and regulations of the state. In general, there is no legal bar on a person becoming a member of two cooperative societies, but there may be limitations or restrictions imposed by the cooperative laws and regulations of the state. It is important for individuals to examine the relevant cooperative laws and regulations before seeking membership in two cooperative societies, and to carefully consider the practical implications of such membership.
