Mcs act 1960 - provision related to associate member

mahmood mithani (Querist) 24 August 2025 This query is : Resolved
can a member appoint associate member ? if yes only from blood relation? can appoint outside blood relation too?

i would be very thankful if someone advice on this

thank your

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Quick Summary

Under the Maharashtra Cooperative Societies Act 1960, a member cannot directly 'appoint' an associate member. Instead, a member can recommend someone for associate membership. The final decision rests with the cooperative society's by-laws and rules, ensuring the candidate meets specific criteria. Acceptance is not automatic upon recommendation and depends on the society's established conditions.

T. Kalaiselvan, Advocate (Expert) 24 August 2025
A member cannot "appoint" an associate member under the Maharashtra Cooperative Societies (MCS) Act, 1960, as associate membership is granted through a written recommendation of a member. The term "appoint" usually implies a power to designate someone to a position, whereas in this context, a member can recommend someone for associate membership, but the society's rules and the candidate's qualifications determine the acceptance.
The acceptance of an associate member is subject to the cooperative society's by-laws and rules, which must be in accordance with the Maharashtra Cooperative Societies Act, 1960 and its associated rules.
Just because a member recommends someone doesn't mean they automatically become an associate member. The person must meet the society's criteria for admission.

kavksatyanarayana (Expert) 24 August 2025
If the rules and conditions of the bylaws of your society permit, then you can. But generally, no society has such terms and conditions in its bylaws.