Cooperative Election Authority

Context:

The Cooperative Election Authority (CEA) held its first consultative meeting with State Cooperative Election Authorities in New Delhi to strengthen transparency and fairness in cooperative body elections.

Cooperative Election Authority (CEA)

Constitution: Established under Section 45 of the Multi-State Cooperative Societies Act, 2002, as amended in 2023.
Notification Date: 11 March 2024.
Mandate: Conduct elections to Multi-State Cooperative Societies (MSCS) in a free, fair, and transparent manner.
Performance: Since March 2024, conducted 159 elections; 69 more elections are in process.

Key Functions Discussed in Meeting:

Framing of Code of Conduct for contesting candidates in MSCS elections.
Upper Limit on Candidate Expenditure: Proposed expenditure cap to ensure level playing field.
Publication of Handbook for Returning Officers to standardise election procedures.
Election of Delegates: From member cooperative societies to national cooperative societies.
Use of Technology: Proposal to introduce Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs) in cooperative elections.
Operational Measures: Discussion on share capital rules, candidate symbols, and use of indelible ink.

Significance:

Enhances democratic governance in the cooperative sector.
Strengthens accountability in a sector crucial for rural credit, agriculture, and allied activities.
Aligns with International Year of Cooperatives 2025, highlighting India’s commitment to cooperative sector reforms.

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