FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions about Society Registration in India
1. What is Society Registration?
Society registration is the process of legally forming a society under the Societies Registration Act, 1860 in India. It allows a group of individuals, usually with a common objective, to come together and form an organized entity known as a society to fulfill their common goals.
2. Who can apply for Society Registration?
Any group of individuals, including citizens of India, trusts, or even companies can apply for society registration in India. The group must consist of a minimum of seven members, and they should all be above the age of 18 years.
3. What is the objective of society registration?
Society registration enables the group to function as a legal entity, providing them with a separate legal existence from the individuals who form it. The main objective is to establish an organized framework for the group's activities, such as promoting educational, charitable, or social welfare objectives.
4. What are the necessary documents required for Society Registration?
The required documents for society registration include:
– Memorandum of Association (MoA): It outlines the society's objectives, rules, and regulations.
– Articles of Association (AoA): It lays out the group's bylaws, governing its internal operations and procedures.
– Address Proof: Documents such as an electricity bill, rent agreement, or ownership proof of the society premises are required.
– Identity Proof: A copy of the PAN card or Aadhaar card of all members must be provided.
– Address Proof & Identity Proof of the President/Secretary: Additional proof of the key office bearers' identity and address is necessary.
5. How long does it take to complete the Society Registration process?
The time required for society registration in India can vary depending on the workload of the government authorities and the accuracy of the documents provided. Generally, it takes around 30-45 days to complete the registration process.
6. Are there any specific rules and regulations that a society must follow?
Yes, societies registered in India must comply with the rules and regulations mentioned in their Memorandum of Association and Articles of Association. Additionally, they are required to maintain proper records, hold regular meetings, and file annual reports with the Registrar of Societies.
7. Can a society be dissolved or canceled after registration?
Yes, a society can be dissolved or canceled if the members decide to do so in accordance with the procedures mentioned in their registered documents. It is important to follow the legal formalities and inform the Registrar of Societies about the dissolution.
8. Can a society undertake commercial activities?
While the main objective of a society is generally not commercial in nature, it can undertake ancillary commercial activities that support its primary objectives. However, any surplus generated from these activities should be utilized for the benefit of the society and not distributed among its members.
9. What are the advantages of society registration?
Some advantages of society registration in India include the legal recognition and status it provides to the group, the ability to own property in the society's name, and the eligibility to receive grants and donations for the society's activities. It also offers the benefit of limited liability to the society's members.
10. Can a society's name be changed after registration?
Yes, it is possible to change the name of a registered society. However, the procedure for name change may require the approval of the Registrar of Societies and amendments to the Memorandum of Association and Articles of Association.
