Punjab Societies Under RTI Crackdown Begins after the Punjab Cabinet approved major amendments to the Societies Registration Act, 1860. Punjab Industries Minister Sanjeev Arora announced a stronger regulatory framework that aims to create transparency and discipline in the functioning of societies. With these changes, Punjab Societies Under RTI Crackdown Begins as the state prepares to tighten long-pending loopholes.
Currently, several lakh societies operate across Punjab, yet many lack proper monitoring. To address this gap, the government introduced a mandatory five-year renewal system. Additionally, all existing societies must re-register within one year under the new rules. Registrars can now demand information at any time, which significantly strengthens administrative oversight.
Moreover, the amendments target misleading and deceptive names. Societies will not be allowed to use terms that suggest government authority or national importance. Words like Reserve Bank, Gandhi, Anti-terrorist, Anti-corruption, and Vigilance fall under the prohibited category. To avoid confusion further, each jurisdiction will permit only one unique society name.
Governance requirements have also become stricter. Before selling any immovable property, societies must obtain government approval. Elections, too, must follow the procedures written in each society’s memorandum. The Registrar of Societies will now process all complaints, and authorities will initiate strong legal action against any society found violating the rules.
Overall, Minister Arora stated that these changes will end the “shop-like” functioning of certain organizations. Through these reforms, the government hopes to build a cleaner, more transparent, and more trustworthy system for society operations across Punjab.
