The Union territory of Lakshadweep on August 11, 2026, issued the Draft Lakshadweep Registration of Societies Rules, 2026.
The following has been stated:
• The Rules prescribe the procedure for approval of society names, registration, maintenance of the Register of Societies, allotment of registration numbers and issuance of registration certificates. A proposed society shall submit three names in order of priority to the Registrar, and an approved name remains valid for 180 days, within which the society shall complete its registration. The Memorandum of Association shall be signed by at least seven persons, and the registration application shall be accompanied by the prescribed Memorandum, Bye-laws, documents and fees.
• The Rules further prescribe procedures for change of name, amendment of the Memorandum/Bye-laws, membership, changes in the governing body and maintenance of society records. Existing societies may obtain a new registration number by submitting documents such as their registration certificate, Memorandum, Bye-laws, member and governing-body lists and audited accounts for the preceding three financial years. Amendments to the Memorandum or Bye-laws require the prescribed resolutions and supporting documents, while changes in office-bearers and governing-body members have to be reported in the prescribed format. The Rules also require societies seeking to sell, alienate or transfer immovable property to obtain the prescribed permission and submit details including the property particulars, valuation, purchaser, reasons for transfer and relevant resolutions.
• The Rules also prescribe a Schedule of Fees and penalties, including ₹100 for name approval, ₹2,500 for registration, ₹500 for filing annual returns/balance sheets, ₹200 for inspection of documents, ₹500 for amendments, ₹200 for filing membership returns and ₹500 for change of registered office. Penalties and late fees are prescribed for delayed filing of members' lists and other statutory documents, with additional daily charges for prolonged delays. The framework therefore seeks to ensure standardised registration, continuous statutory compliance, maintenance of records and greater regulatory oversight of societies in Lakshadweep, while providing prescribed forms for virtually every major filing and approval process.
