The Government of Punjab, on May 01, 2026, issued the Societies Registration (Punjab Amendment) Bill 2026, further to amend the Societies Registration Act, 1860, in its application to the State of Punjab.
The following has been stated:-
•The Societies Registration (Punjab Amendment) Act, 2026, amends the Societies Registration Act, 1860, to specifically regulate societies engaged in education and healthcare in Punjab.
•It introduces new provisions defining key terms, applicability, and governance structures, while keeping other societies under the original Act.
•The amendment lays down rules for registration, naming restrictions, renewal every five years, and reduced fees for certain disadvantaged groups.
•It strengthens oversight by granting the Registrar powers to refuse registration, conduct inquiries, demand information, audit accounts, and ensure compliance.
•Strict provisions are added for financial transparency, mandatory audits, property transfer restrictions, and reporting requirements.
•It also enables actions like suspension of governing bodies, appointment of administrators, and cancellation or dissolution of societies in cases of fraud, inactivity, or mismanagement.
•Overall, the Act aims to enhance transparency, accountability, and effective governance of educational and healthcare societies in Punjab.
The detailed notification is given in the document below.
[Notification No.: 7-PLA-2026/10]
