Assembly passes Societies Registration Amendment Bill

Chandigarh: Punjab assembly on Friday passed the Societies Registration (Punjab Amendment) Bill 2026, aimed at "enhancing transparency, accountability and proper functioning of societies operating in Punjab."This Bill was presented in the House by minister Sanjeev Arora to amend the Societies Act of 1860. Arora claimed that the Bill will modernise the regulatory framework governing societies, especially those engaged in health, education, sports, social welfare and charitable activities. "The amendments also bring all societies under a uniform, transparent regime, ensuring responsible use of public funds and tax-exempt resources," he said.He highlighted that all registered societies in Punjab will now be mandatorily covered under the Right to Information (RTI) Act, ensuring public scrutiny, transparency in decision-making and greater public trust. Registrars have been empowered to seek any information or records from societies to ensure compliance with law and prevent misuse of funds or deviation from stated objectives.Also, all societies will be required to renew their registration every five years to ensure active functioning, accurate records and periodic verification of their objectives and management. All existing societies in Punjab must re-register under the amended Act within one year from its enforcement, bringing them under the new compliance and transparency framework.Arora said that many charitable institutions avail income tax benefits by registering as societies. This Act ensures such organisations follow strict compliance and accountability norms to continue receiving such exemptions in order to safeguard public & charitable institutions. The amendments particularly strengthen monitoring of societies engaged in health services, educational institutions, sports bodies and other public-oriented charitable activities.
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