In a significant move to uphold fair representation and effective governance, the Cooperative Election Authority at Central level has decided to prohibit the nomination of multiple candidates from the same family for the Board of Directors of Multi-State Cooperative Societies.
This decision was taken to address concerns arising from close familial ties among Board members.
The Authority observed that if several Directors are related by blood, it can seriously impair the functioning of the Board. Under Section 41(6) of the Multi-State Cooperative Societies Act, Directors are barred from participating in Board meetings where decisions involve contracts or requirements linked to their own interests. If most Board members belong to the same family, this legal restriction would paralyze the decision-making process.
Additionally, the presence of multiple candidates from one family often leads to disproportionate representation of a particular state, disturbing the federal balance in multi-state societies.
Considering these factors, the Authority has invoked Section 45(L) of the Act and Rule 19(F)(e) of the Election Rules to cancel the nomination process in such cases.
The prohibition will apply where a majority of nominated candidates are related by blood, ensuring transparency, neutrality, and balanced representation in the governance of cooperatives.
In a related development the Cooperative Election Authority has issued fresh guidelines concerning Central Government employees contesting elections in Multi-State Cooperative Societies.
The move is in line with the Department of Personnel & Training (DoPT) Office Memorandum dated 21st February 2020, which allows government servants to hold elective office for a maximum of two terms or five years, whichever is earlier.
However, they must obtain prior permission from the competent authority before contesting any election.
To ensure compliance, the Authority has made it mandatory for returning officers to obtain a self-declaration from such candidates during the nomination process. A special annexure titled “Information regarding Central Government Servant under Rule 15(1)(c) of the CCS (Conduct) Rules, 1964” will now form part of the nomination form.
Candidates will be required to furnish details such as name, membership number, previous tenure in any elective post, name of the organization, and confirmation of prior permission. If permission has been granted, a copy of the approval must be attached.
This step aims to bring transparency and ensure that the rules governing Central Government employees are not violated during elections in the cooperative sector. All Returning Officers have been directed to follow the new instructions strictly.
Very good decision but it should implement Properly.
This order is applicable for only multi stata coops. or all ccops. including primary societies. Pl. Update.
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