As of my last update in January 2022, the rules and regulations for society registration in India are governed primarily by the Societies Registration Act, 1860. However, please note that laws and regulations can change over time, so it’s essential to consult the latest information or legal experts for the most up-to-date guidance. Here are some key points regarding society registration in India:
Societies Registration Act, 1860: The Societies Registration Act, 1860, is the primary legislation governing the registration of societies in India. It provides for the registration of societies for various charitable, religious, literary, scientific, or charitable purposes.
Formation and Registration: To register a society under the Societies Registration Act, a group of individuals (minimum seven) must come together with a common purpose and form a memorandum of association and rules and regulations governing the society’s operations. These documents, along with an application form, must be submitted to the Registrar of Societies in the state where the society will be located.
Memorandum of Association and Rules: The memorandum of association should contain details such as the name of the society, its objectives, the names, addresses, and occupations of the governing body members. The rules and regulations should outline the internal management and functioning of the society.
Registration Process: Once the application, memorandum of association, and rules and regulations are submitted, the Registrar of Societies will review the documents. If everything is in order and complies with the requirements, the Registrar will register the society and issue a certificate of registration.
Bye-laws and Amendments: Societies may also have bye-laws governing specific aspects of their functioning. Any amendments to the memorandum of association, rules, or bye-laws must be approved by the governing body and registered with the Registrar of Societies.
Compliance and Reporting: Registered societies are required to comply with the provisions of the Societies Registration Act and other applicable laws. They may also be required to submit annual reports, audited financial statements, and other documents to the Registrar of Societies.
Tax Exemptions: Registered societies may be eligible for tax exemptions under certain provisions of the Income Tax Act, 1961, if they meet the criteria specified by the Income Tax Department.
It’s essential to stay updated with any changes or amendments to the laws governing society registration in India. Additionally, seeking legal advice or assistance from professionals specializing in this area can help ensure compliance with the relevant regulations.
