Punjab Enhances Society Governance with Landmark Reform

The Punjab government has amended the Societies Act of 1860, aiming to enhance transparency and accountability in the state's societies. The reforms, part of the Societies Registration (Punjab Amendment) Act, 2025, introduce modern regulations, mandatory RTI coverage, and compliance measures, improving governance across key social sectors.

The Punjab government has initiated significant reforms to the Societies Act of 1860, enhancing transparency and accountability within the state's societies, announced a minister on Friday.

The newly introduced Societies Registration (Punjab Amendment) Act, 2025, presents a modernized regulatory framework for societies involved in health, education, sports, social welfare, and charitable activities, according to Industry and Commerce Minister Sanjeev Arora.

Under the new reforms, societies must adhere to uniform transparency standards, utilize funds responsibly, register every five years, and comply with the RTI Act for scrutiny and transparency. Additionally, registrars can request records to prevent misuse, and Deputy Commissioners are empowered for inquiry in case of complaints.

(With inputs from agencies.)