03 October,2026 01:00 PM IST | Mumbai | Vinod Kumar Menon
Representation pic/iStock
Maharashtra's September 30 redevelopment framework raises more questions than answers. The overhaul introduces 51 per cent physical attendance, secret ballots, competitive tendering and registered accommodation agreements, while tightening scrutiny of office-bearers. But will these safeguards prevent closed-door negotiations, developer influence and procedural manipulation - or merely add another layer of paperwork?
Prakash Darekar, chairman of the Maharashtra State Housing Federation, said the federation was still examining the GR but welcomed some of its provisions. "We are in the process of going through the fine print of the GR issued by the state. We will support any such decision, which is in the best interest of the common public. We welcome certain decisions viz. 51 per cent attendance, video conference facility for senior citizens, etc."
Darekar said residents could choose between developer-led redevelopment and self-redevelopment.
"The state housing federation will soon be conducting meetings with cooperative societies and also have seminars to educate the masses, and if we find some points in the GR are not in the larger interest of the common man, we will bring to the notice of the state government and necessary amendments would be made in larger interest of common man."
Deepak Taware, Commissioner for Co-operation and Registrar of Co-operative Societies, Maharashtra, and S M Patil, Divisional Joint Registrar, Co-operation, and Registrar of Co-operative Societies, who headed the committee on redevelopment of societies, were unavailable for comment.
CA Ramesh Prabhu, founder-chairman of Maharashtra Societies Welfare Association (MahaSEWA),
welcomed compulsory public tendering and provisions allowing action against managing committee members for violations.
"The new GR has positives, including compulsory tendering through public notice. The latest GR also provides for action against managing committee members under Sections 78A and 79A (3), including dismissal and possible disqualification from contesting elections for the next term."
However, Prabhu flagged concerns over the enhanced role of Deputy Registrars, saying it could raise questions over cooperative autonomy. He also pointed to the absence of a redevelopment web portal, provisions on self-redevelopment and PMC/architect empanelment.
"If transparency is the objective, the entire process should be available online alongside physical proceedings."
He also questioned the lack of public consultation before the latest GR.
"It is surprising that this is the third redevelopment GR without seeking public objections and suggestions. The common man, directly affected by redevelopment, should have been taken into confidence."
Member participation
Members unable to attend physically can participate online, but at least 51 per cent of total members must be physically present at the Special General Body Meeting (SGM). Redevelopment approval requires a two-thirds quorum and support from 51% of the total membership. The SGM remains central to decisions on project reports, tenders and developer selection.
Before tendering
The architect/PMC must assess the society's title, conveyance, member requirements, development potential, planning norms, alternative schemes and project feasibility. SGM-approved tenders must be publicly invited through widely circulated Marathi and English newspapers. At least three bids are normally required.
Choosing the developer
The architect/PMC must prepare a comparative statement covering bidders' experience, financial strength, technical capacity, reputation and commercial offer. Developer selection must be video-recorded in the presence of an authorised officer. A written demand by one-fifth of the members triggers a secret ballot.
Protecting members
A registered Permanent Alternative Accommodation Agreement must be executed before members are asked to vacate. The agreement must cover timelines, transit rent, corpus, development rights and dispute resolution. Members can inspect redevelopment notices, minutes, project reports, tenders and comparative statements free of charge and obtain copies on prescribed charges.
Bank guarantee
The GR does not prescribe a fixed percentage. The General Body will decide the amount, proportion and nature of the guarantee based on the project.
Accountability
Collusion, fraud, deception or conduct prejudicial to members may invite action under Sections 79A(3) and 78A, subject to statutory safeguards and due process.
