Punjab has introduced the Societies Registration (Punjab Amendment) Act, 2025 to boost transparency and accountability in the functioning of societies. This landmark reform updates the old Societies Act of 1860 and aims to create a clean and responsible framework. The first paragraph highlights the aim to boost transparency and accountability, and this aim appears again later in the article.
Cabinet Minister Sanjeev Arora said the amendment modernises regulation for societies working in health, education, sports, social welfare and charitable services. The law now brings all societies under one transparent system. It also ensures proper use of public funds and tax-exempt resources.
A key feature states that all societies will now fall under the RTI Act. This step allows public scrutiny and strengthens trust. Registrars can seek records anytime to prevent fund misuse or deviation from objectives.
The Act also makes five-year renewal mandatory. All existing societies must re-register within one year. It also restricts the use of identical or misleading names. No society can sell or transfer immovable property without the Registrar’s approval.
Deputy Commissioners will oversee societies and can order inquiries through Tehsildars. If issues continue, an SDM-level Administrator can take charge.
The Act supports democratic functioning by mandating fresh elections within six months if a committee dissolves. It also strengthens monitoring of health, education and sports bodies. The Punjab Societies Act 2025 aims to boost transparency and accountability across public-oriented institutions.
