General Body

Part 1

v     Importance of General Body Meeting

The Co-operative Housing Societies are democratic bodies whose affairs are managed by the members of the societies. The managing committee elected by members from among themselves looks after the management of the society as per the approved Bye-laws of the Co-operative Societies. Management is by the members, of the members and for the members as per the principles of Democracy.

The general Body Meetings are the most important part of the management of the society. The final authority of the society vests in the general body of the society. It has been generally observed that management problems do not arise in societies where most members actively participate in the deliberations at general body meetings. Amicable discussions, foster co-operation, tolerance and understanding between members of the society, members of the managing committee and the office bearers, an atmosphere of peace is engendered. Since the general body meeting provides a platform for healthy discussion, it assumes an important role in the effective management of the society.

Considering the importance of the general body meetings in the working of the Co-operative housing society, every member of the society must attend the general body meeting and take part in the deliberations. It has been observed that a majority of the members prefer to stay at home rather than attend the general body meeting. Some members are of the opinion that the decisions taken/resolutions passed. This is not correct. Any decision taken or resolution passed by the majority present in the general body meetings held as per the Act, Rules and Bye-laws of Co-operative Societies is building on every member of society whether he was present or absent at the meeting and irrespective of whether he supported or opposed it. Further no resolution passed at the general body meeting can be cancelled by another resolution at the next meeting unless 6 months have passed.(As per Bye-law No.110)

All the members should attend the general body meeting. The members should also take the opportunity to express their gratitude to those few who are working for the benefit of so many.

Types of general body meetings As per the Bye-laws of the Co-operative Housing Societies.