Societies Registration Act Assam
The Societies Registration Act Assam governs how the non-profit societies are formed, registered, renewed, and regulated in the state. It follows the Societies Registration Act, 1860, along with Assam-specific amendments that define registration validity, compliance duties, and renewal timelines.
What is the Societies Registration Act Assam?
The Societies Registration Act Assam, refers to the Societies Registration Act, 1860, as adopted and amended by the Assam government. It provides the legal framework for registering non-profit societies formed for charitable, literary, scientific, educational, or cultural purposes.
In Assam, the Act is administered by the Registrar of Firms and Societies, who oversees registration, renewal, name changes, and compliance filings. Once registered, a society becomes a legally recognised body, separate from its individual members.
Why Society Registration Matters in Assam?
Registering under the Societies Registration Act Assam helps communities function with clarity and accountability. For residential welfare associations, cultural groups, and non-profit organisations, registration provides a recognised structure to manage funds, property, and decision-making.
Why it matters for communities:
- Enables the opening of a society bank account
- Helps manage common funds transparently
- Builds trust among members and authorities
- Supports long-term continuity beyond office bearers
For housing communities, this legal clarity often becomes the base for smoother maintenance planning and record-keeping.
Governing Law and Assam Amendments Explained
The legal foundation remains the Societies Registration Act,1860, but Assam has introduced amendments to suit local governance needs.
Key legislative updates include:
- Assam Amendment Act, 1948: Enabled the structured application of the central Act within the state
- Assam Amendment Act, 2019: Introduced mandatory renewal every three years
- Assam Amendment Act, 2022: Updated procedural and compliance provisions
These amendments make periodic renewal and timely filings a core responsibility for societies operating in Assam.
Who Can Register a Society in Assam?
Under the Societies Registration Act Assam, a society can be formed by:
- A minimum of seven individuals
- Members associated with:
- Literary purposes
- Scientific research
- Fine arts
- Education or instruction
- Charitable activities
All founding members must sign the Memorandum of Association and approve the society’s rules before submission.
Documents Required for Society Registration in Assam
Proper documentation ensures smooth registration and avoids delays.
Mandatory documents include:
- Two signed copies of the Memorandum of Association
- Two signed copies of Rules and Regulations
- Resolution approving registration and election of executive members
- Address proof of the registered office:
- Dag and Patta numbers if owned
- Landlord affidavit if rented
- ID proofs and photographs of the President and Secretary
Accurate records at this stage simplify future renewals and compliance.
Step-by-Step Registration Process in Assam
The registration process under the Societies Registration Act Assam, follows a defined sequence:
- Draft the Memorandum of Association and society rules
- Pass a resolution approving registration
- Arrange proof of the registered office address
- Pay the prescribed fee via Treasury Challan
- Submit documents to the Registrar of Societies
- Receive the registration certificate after verification
Once approved, the society gains formal legal standing.
Fees and Payment Structure
The registration fee is kept affordable to encourage compliance.
- Fee amount: Around ₹50
- Payment mode: Treasury Challan
- Head of account: 1475 – Other General Economic Services
This nominal fee applies to both new registrations and certain amendment filings.
Legal Status and Rights of Registered Societies
After registration under the Societies Registration Act Assam, a society becomes a legal entity distinct from its members. This allows it to:
- Own or lease property
- Enter into contracts
- Sue or be sued in its own name
- Continue operations despite changes in office bearers
This separation protects members while ensuring institutional continuity.
Renewal Rules and Validity Period
As per the 2019 amendment, registration is valid for three years.
Key renewal points:
- Renewal must be filed before expiry or within one month after
- Delay beyond this period leads to registration lapse
- Renewal applications follow the same authority process
Timely renewal avoids disruptions in banking, funding, and legal standing.
Read also: Society Registration Renewal: Complete Guide [2025]
Annual Compliance Requirements
Registered societies must meet ongoing compliance obligations.
These include:
- Filing the annual list of the managing committee members
- Submitting the audited housing society balance sheet and the auditor’s report
- Completing filings within 30 days of the AGM
- Seeking Registrar approval for name changes
Consistent compliance builds credibility with members and regulators.
Online Registration and Sewa Setu Portal
Assam offers digital access through the Sewa Setu Assam portal, under the Assam Right to Public Services Act. Societies can:
- Apply for registration
- File renewals
- Track application status
Online services reduce paperwork and bring clarity to timelines and approvals.
Common Mistakes Societies Should Avoid
Even well-meaning societies often face compliance issues. Being aware of these common mistakes helps committees stay organised:
- Missing renewal deadlines
- Incomplete address proof submissions
- Not filing annual returns after the Annual General Body Meeting
- Poor record-keeping during committee transitions
Avoiding these issues helps societies function smoothly and retain legal validity.
Society Management with NoBrokerHood
NoBrokerHood is used by residential societies across Assam to manage day-to-day operations in a more organised and transparent manner. While registration under the Societies Registration Act Assam is completed through the state registration authorities, NoBrokerHood supports societies after registration by helping management committees maintain records, manage meetings, and communicate effectively with members.
By digitising documents and compliance-related information, the platform helps reduce manual errors and supports consistent governance practices. This makes it easier for societies to follow ongoing requirements that are applicable in Assam.
All Solutions by NoBrokerHood:
FAQs
A minimum of seven members is required to form and register a society under the Societies Registration Act Assam. All members must agree on the purpose and rules.
Yes. Registration is valid for three years, and societies must apply for renewal within the prescribed timeline to avoid cancellation.
Yes. RWAs engaged in charitable or community welfare activities can register under the Societies Registration Act Assam if eligibility conditions are met.
Applications can be submitted through the Sewa Setu Assam portal, which provides registration and renewal services.
Failure to renew leads to lapse of registration, affecting the society’s legal standing, banking operations, and compliance status.