The Department of Co-operation, Marketing, and Textiles in Maharashtra has issued an order on October 7, 2024, postponing the elections for 29,429 co-operative societies across the state until December 31, 2024. This decision, taken under Section 73CC of the Maharashtra Co-operative Societies Act, 1960, allows the government to defer elections if they coincide with major events such as State Assembly Elections.
Background of the Postponement
The elections for thousands of co-operative societies have been due in the state for the 2024-2025 period. Among these, 7,109 societies had already begun the election process. However, due to heavy rains impacting various regions, the election process was first postponed to September 30, 2024. The deferral aimed to ensure that the elections could be conducted in a manner that prioritizes safety, transparency, and an environment free from undue influence.
Scope of the Postponement and Exceptions
According to the latest order, the elections for most co-operative societies in Maharashtra will be delayed until the end of the year. However, certain exceptions apply, as detailed in the order. Elections will continue for the following types of co-operative societies:
- Co-operative housing societies with 250 or fewer members.
- Co-operative societies where the Honorable Supreme Court or High Court has mandated that elections must be conducted.
- Co-operative societies that have already completed most of the election process, with only the President or Vice-President positions remaining to be filled.
These exemptions ensure that the elections proceed for societies with simpler election logistics or specific court mandates.
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Reasons for the Decision
The Maharashtra government has exercised its powers to postpone the elections to facilitate a smooth and transparent election process. The aim is to reduce risks due to adverse weather conditions and to avoid overlapping with other critical events, such as State Assembly Elections, which may affect resource allocation and security measures.
Moreover, the government’s decision is also influenced by the need to ensure the availability of adequate resources and infrastructure for 29,429 societies, a substantial number that would require extensive coordination for fair and organized elections. The postponement will allow the state to prepare effectively and hold elections in a fear-free environment, ultimately supporting the democratic processes within these societies.
Next Steps for Co-operative Societies
For societies whose elections are postponed, they will resume from the current stage of the election process once the delay period ends. The state government is expected to issue additional guidelines to these societies to ensure they are fully informed about the resumption timelines and any revised protocols that may apply.
The decision aims to uphold the integrity of the election process while addressing concerns related to public safety and logistics. As such, co-operative societies across Maharashtra are urged to comply with the order and prepare accordingly for the rescheduled elections later this year.