Maharashtra's New Redevelopment Rules Require 51% Physical Presence, Creating Hurdles for Societies

Maharashtra's new guidelines issued on September 30 under Section 79A of the Maharashtra Cooperative Societies Act govern redevelopment of cooperative housing societies. The rules permit members to attend special general meetings through video conferencing, allowing those abroad, bedridden, disabled, or unable to attend in person to participate online.

However, the guidelines mandate that at least 51% of total society members be physically present at the SGM for developer selection decisions. This requirement creates practical difficulties for societies where many flat owners live elsewhere or have rented out their properties, making it hard to achieve the required quorum.

The contradiction in the rules is evident: while online attendance counts toward the 2/3rd quorum and 51% majority needed for approving a developer, a separate 51% physical presence requirement must still be met. This dual condition may stall redevelopment efforts for buildings in poor condition.