Reminder: Societies That Missed the September 30 AGM Deadline Should Act Now

The deadline for Maharashtra cooperative housing societies to hold their annual general meeting (AGM) for FY 2025-26 and file the annual return with the Registrar fell on September 30, 2026. Societies that have not yet held the meeting are now late, and the managing committee should treat the meeting as an immediate priority rather than wait for the next quarter.

Why the AGM matters

The AGM is the yearly meeting at which members approve the audited accounts and the budget, and appoint the auditor for the coming year. Without it, the annual return cannot be completed and the society's record with the Registrar's office shows a default, which can be raised by members or during an inspection.

Options available under the 2026 rules

The Maharashtra Co-operative Societies (Amendment) Rules, 2026, notified on June 18, 2026, added Chapter XI-B for housing societies. Under Rule 106C-13, members can attend a general body meeting in person or through video conferencing, provided the proceedings can be recorded. Quorum, the minimum attendance for a valid meeting, is two-thirds of members or 20 members, whichever is less, and resolutions pass by a 51% majority.

What this means for housing societies

• Issue a proper written notice for the AGM as required by your bye-laws; a meeting held on defective notice can be challenged by members.
• Make sure the statutory audit of FY 2025-26 is complete, since audited accounts must be placed before the members.
• Use video conferencing if physical attendance is low, and keep the recording and attendance record.
• Write to the Deputy Registrar explaining the delay and ask how it should be regularised, instead of skipping the meeting.

File the annual return as soon as the AGM is completed, and check with the Registrar's office whether any extension has been notified before relying on one.