Introduction

Society registration in Haryana provides legal recognition to non-profit organizations and is governed primarily by the Societies Registration Act, 1860. Below is a comprehensive guide covering the introduction, benefits, trust definition under the relevant State Act, stepwise registration process, and how to register a society online in Haryana.

Society registration is a legal step required for forming association of individuals with charitable, social, cultural, literary, or scientific objectives in Haryana. This status is necessary  for any group or association that wants to function lawfully and avail various legal rights and benefits.

What is a Society?

Societies in Haryana are governed under The Haryana Registration And Regulation Of Societies Act, 2012.  Section 2 (xxiii) defines “Society” as a Society duly registered or deemed to be registered under the provisions of the Act and includes a State Aided Society. 

Benefits of Society Registration

1. Legal Recognition and Separate Entity Status– A registered society is recognized by law as a separate legal entity that is different from its members. This means that the society can own property, enter into contracts, and open bank accounts in its name.
2. Credibility and Trustworthiness– Registration builds credibility in the eyes of donors, government bodies, corporate sponsors, and the public. It shows that the society operates transparently, follows legal norms, and is accountable, which builds trust for fundraising and partnerships.
3. Limited Liability for Members- Members of a registered society benefit from limited liability, meaning their personal assets are protected from the society’s liabilities. 
4. Access to Government Grants and Funding- Registered societies are often eligible to apply for government grants and schemes designed to support charitable and public welfare activities.
5. Tax Exemptions and Benefits– Societies registered under relevant laws can apply for tax exemptions under sections like 12A and 80G of the Income Tax Act. This allows the society to receive donations that are tax-deductible for donors, and the society itself pays less tax, keeping more funds for its activities.
6. Ability to Sue and Be Sued- As a legal entity, a registered society can enforce contracts, recover dues, and defend itself in legal disputes. 

How to Register your Society in Haryana?

The following are the steps to be followed for society registration as per the Government of Haryana,

1. For online registration go to https://haryanaindustries.gov.in/ 
2. Click on services on the top menu bar.
3. Or directly go to https://haryanaindustries.gov.in/msme/site/login 
4. If you are a new user then click on https://haryanaindustries.gov.in/msme/form and enter your details, documents required for this registration are either your Adhaar Card or PAN card mandatorily. 
5. If you already have an account on the portal, enter your already registered username and password. 
6. Enter details of the society, including place of business, purpose, name and address of the founding members and such other details 
7. Make sure to attach all the documents required. 
8. Then pay the necessary registration fees. 
9. After successful registration the Registrar of Societies will evaluate the application. 

Documents required for society registration in Haryana

1. ID Proof: Copies of identity and address proof of all founding members.
2. Photographs: Passport-sized photographs of the members of the society.
3. Memorandum of Association (MOA): including the society’s name, registered place of business, objectives, and details of the members.
4. Rules and Regulations: Defines the rules governing the society’s functioning, including membership, meetings, and dissolution.
5. Affidavits: From the president or secretary, confirming the society’s existence and adherence to legal requirements.

Recent Development in Society Registration in Haryana

The Haryana Registration And Regulation Of Societies Act, 2012 is the governing framework for societies in Haryana. The major points to keep in mind are: 

1. A society is formed by at least seven people with common goals and must register with the government.
2. Societies cannot distribute profits or dividends to members except certain housing or welfare associations
3. Societies must get their name approved and register with the District Registrar. Names cannot include certain prohibited words or be too similar to existing societies.(section 7)
4. Registration involves submitting a Memorandum of Association (MoA) and Bye-laws, i.e., rules of the society. (section 8)
5. Societies must maintain a registered office and inform the Registrar of any changes.
6. Membership requires seven people who are 21 or older, not insolvent or convicted of serious crimes.(section 8(3)).
7. The General Body includes all members. Societies with over 300 members must form a Collegium (smaller representative body)
8. Societies must file annual returns, member lists, audit reports with the Registrar(sections 47-50).

Conclusion

Society registration in  Haryana not only formalizes the functioning of such non profit groups but also gives multiple legal and administrative advantages, such as legal recognition, eligibility for tax exemptions, credibility for fundraising, and simplified operational procedures. By following the above online registration process and ensuring proper documentation, societies can secure long-term sustainability and transparency for their activities. 

FAQs

1.How many members are required to form a society in Haryana?

A minimum of seven members who are at least 21 years old and meet other eligibility criteria as per the Act are required to form a society.

2.What documents are required to register a society in Haryana?

Identity and address proofs of founding members, passport-sized photographs, Memorandum of Association, Bye-laws, and affidavits confirming compliance with legal requirements.

3.What is the process for society registration in Haryana?

Apply online on the Haryana industries portal, get the society name approved, submit an application with documents and fees to the District Registrar, who then evaluates and registers the society.

4.Can a society change its name after registration?

Yes, a society can apply for a name change with the prior approval of the District Registrar by passing a special resolution and submitting required documents.

5.How often must societies file returns with the Registrar?

Societies must file annual returns including member lists, audited accounts, and other prescribed documents to the District Registrar.

6.Are societies allowed to distribute profits or dividends to members?

No, societies (except certain housing or welfare associations) are prohibited from distributing profits or dividends to members under the Act.

7.Where can one register a society online in Haryana?

Society registration can be done online via the Haryana industries portal at https://haryanaindustries.gov.in/msme/site/login following the guided steps for new or existing users.

8.What is the tenure of the Governing Body of a society?

The tenure of the Governing Body is generally 3 years, but it may vary as per the society’s Bye-laws.

9.Can foreigners become members of a society in Haryana?

Foreigners may be allowed membership only if the Bye-laws permit and under conditions approved by the Registrar.

10.How can a society be dissolved under the Haryana Societies Act?

A society can be dissolved by passing a special resolution, settling all liabilities, and with approval or oversight from the Registrar.