RIGHTS MCS Act Section 32 & Model Bye-Law No. 172

Member Accounts Inspection Rights & 15-Day Resolution

Primary Statute: Maharashtra Co-operative Societies Act 1960 & Model Bye-Law No. 172

Official Gazette: Maharashtra Co-operative Societies Act 1960

Plain English Explanation

As a member of a cooperative housing society, you have a statutory right to inspect all society accounts, contractor bills, payment vouchers, bank passbooks, and architect valuation certificates free of cost during society office hours. The Managing Committee cannot claim that accounts are secret or private.

Statutory Calculation Formula

Right: Free inspection of all books, vouchers, and accounts during office hours

Written queries must be answered and document copies provided within 15 to 30 days.

What is Legally Permitted

Inspecting society accounts, vouchers, bank records, and architect certificates during office hours.

What is Prohibited by Law

Committee refusing access to records, concealing contractor bills, or claiming accounting books are confidential.

Official Gazette Wording & Judicial Precedents

"Every member of a society shall be entitled to inspect, free of cost, at the society's office during office hours, a copy of the Act, rules, bye-laws, the last audited balance sheet, profit and loss account, list of committee members, and any valuation report. Copies must be furnished within prescribed time."

Judicial Authority & Case Law:

Withholding society accounts, financial vouchers, or architect valuation reports from a member is an offense punishable under Section 146 and Section 147 of the MCS Act.

What to Do if Your Bill Violates This Rule

Submit a formal written application under MCS Act Section 32 requesting an appointment to inspect the relevant vouchers and accounts at the society office.

Pre-Drafted Note for Society WhatsApp Group or Secretary:

Hi everyone, a reminder that under MCS Act Section 32 and Model Bye-Law 172, every member has the right to inspect society accounts, contractor vouchers, and bank statements free of charge. Full transparency strengthens our society!

Instant 10-Second Diagnostic

Verify Your Society Maintenance Bill Against This Rule

Don't calculate by hand. PureSect's AI reads your paper receipt or PDF bill, automatically compares every single rupee against Maharashtra Model Bye-Laws, and spots unauthorized overcharges instantly.

Audit My Maintenance Bill (100% Free)

Back to All Maharashtra Rules Audit Another Bill