Introduction
In many Mumbai Cooperative Housing Societies (CHS), conflicts arise when the managing committee:
- Misuses funds
- Manipulates redevelopment decisions
- Imposes illegal fines
- Refuses transparency
- Harasses specific members
- Fails to conduct AGM
When internal governance breaks down, members often ask:
Can we remove the managing committee?
The answer is yes — but through a structured legal process.
Let’s examine how.
Can Managing Committee Be Removed?
Yes.
Managing committee members in Maharashtra CHS can be removed through:
- No Confidence Motion
- Registrar intervention
- Court order
- Disqualification for misconduct
- Election process
However, removal must follow legal procedure.
What Is a No Confidence Motion?
A no confidence motion is:
A formal resolution passed by members declaring loss of confidence in the committee or specific office bearer (Chairman / Secretary / Treasurer).
It must be:
- Properly requisitioned
- Properly notified
- Properly voted
Verbal protests do not count.
Step-by-Step Process to Initiate No Confidence Motion
Step 1: Requisition by Members
A required number of members must sign a written requisition demanding Special General Meeting (SGM).
The requisition must:
- Clearly state intention.
- Mention reasons (optional but recommended).
- Include member signatures and flat numbers.
Step 2: Committee Must Call SGM
Once requisition received:
Committee must call Special General Meeting within prescribed time.
If committee refuses:
Members can approach Registrar.
Step 3: Conduct Special General Meeting
During SGM:
- No confidence motion is discussed.
- Voting is conducted.
- Minutes recorded.
Proper quorum is mandatory.
Majority Required to Remove Committee
Usually:
Simple majority of members present and voting (subject to bye laws).
Some cases may require higher threshold.
Voting must be:
- Transparent
- Properly recorded
- Free from coercion
Can Entire Committee Be Removed?
Yes.
Members may remove:
- Individual office bearer
- Entire managing committee
If entire committee removed:
Administrator may be appointed until fresh elections.
Registrar’s Role in Committee Removal
If:
- Committee refuses to call SGM
- Misconduct proven
- Financial irregularity found
- Elections not conducted
- AGM not held
Assistant Registrar may:
Issue show cause notice
Suspend committee
Appoint administrator
Order fresh elections
Registrar intervention is powerful remedy.
Grounds for Removal of Committee
Common grounds in Mumbai societies:
- Financial mismanagement
- Non-conduct of AGM
- Refusal to share audit report
- Illegal redevelopment process
- Discrimination or harassment
- Misuse of society funds
- Proxy manipulation
Documented evidence strengthens case.
What If Committee Refuses to Step Down?
If committee refuses after valid vote:
Members may:
- Submit SGM minutes to Registrar.
- File complaint.
- Seek order confirming removal.
- Request appointment of administrator.
Registrar’s order is binding.
Personal Liability of Committee Members
Committee members may face:
- Disqualification
- Financial recovery
- Criminal complaint (if fraud involved)
- Legal costs
Misuse of authority can attract serious consequences.
What Happens After Committee Is Removed?
Possible outcomes:
- Interim administrator appointed
- Fresh election conducted
- New committee formed
- Audit ordered
Members must ensure smooth transition.

Removal During Redevelopment
In Mumbai redevelopment disputes:
If committee:
- Selects developer unfairly
- Manipulates consent
- Hides agreement details
Members may initiate no confidence motion before redevelopment proceeds further.
Timing is crucial.

Election vs No Confidence
Difference:
| Removal | Election |
|---|---|
| Immediate removal | Occurs at end of tenure |
| Triggered by misconduct | Scheduled process |
| Special meeting required | Election authority involved |
Both are legal routes.

Common Mistakes in No Confidence Motions
- Improper notice
- Insufficient signatures
- No quorum
- Voting without proper record
- Emotional meeting without documentation
Procedure is critical.
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Key Takeaways:
- Members can remove committee
- Proper SGM required
- Majority vote needed
- Registrar can intervene
- Documentation essential
Frequently Asked Questions
Can chairman be removed alone?
Yes, via no confidence motion.
What majority is required?
Usually simple majority of members present and voting.
Can Registrar remove committee directly?
Yes, in case of serious violations.
What if committee manipulates voting?
Resolution can be challenged before Registrar.
Can committee be removed during redevelopment?
Yes, if proper procedure followed.
Conclusion
Managing committee members are not above the law.
In Mumbai Cooperative Housing Societies, members have the right to remove a committee that:
- Misuses funds
- Acts without transparency
- Violates bye laws
- Harms society interest
However, removal must follow proper legal procedure to avoid invalidation.
Organized, documented and lawful action ensures democratic governance within housing societies.
Disclaimer: This is not legal advice. Kindly consult a qualified lawyer or legal professional for advice specific to your situation.