Speakers Warn Against Delays, Push For Legal Awareness And Transparency

(Shamim Shaikh) A special seminar on redevelopment of Co-operative Housing Societies (CHS) was held on August 10, 2025, at the Borivali Sanskrutik Kendra Library, organized by the Rotary Club of Mumbai Borivali East. The session focused on legal rights, planning steps, and common mistakes that delay or damage redevelopment projects.

Vimal Jain and Ajay Chaudhari, both experienced redevelopment consultants, led the session. They advised societies not to wait for emergencies like C1 notices, but to start planning redevelopment at least three years in advance.

They also highlighted the lack of trust many residents feel toward Management Committees (MCs), Project Management Consultants (PMCs), and builders. “Around 75% of MCs are believed to act with personal interest,” said Vimal Jain, citing a recent civic observation. “Transparency is key, and society members must demand accountability.”

A major theme of the event was legal awareness. Attendees were introduced to important rules under the CHS bye-laws—including membership rules, share certificate guidelines, and complaint procedures under Section 79A. They were also told how to prepare strong documentation to deal with builders and PMCs, such as:

• Model service agreements
• Tender letters and comparison sheets
• Bank guarantees and income proofs

“If a builder can’t make at least 35% profit, the project may stop midway,” warned Jain, urging societies to verify financials before signing deals.

The seminar also announced a full-day training workshop on 7th September, offering 24 hours of structured guidance in legal, financial, and procedural aspects of CHS redevelopment.

The event marked the induction of Reeta Jain as a new Director in the Rotary Club. The session was supported by Rotary President Devendra Bhatt and Secretary Yogesh Gupte as part of their Unite for Good civic series.

The speakers also explained the difference between associate members and provisional members, noting that while more than one person can be listed as associate members, only one is allowed to vote or attend meetings. They stressed the importance of updating share certificates and understanding the role of the registrar during redevelopment.

To close the session, Jain shared a powerful line of poetry by Gulzar: “Tere badalne ka dukh nahi hai mujko, main toh mere yakeen pe sharminda hoon,” suggesting that misplaced trust in builders or MCs can lead to deep regret. The audience responded with applause, signalling a strong appetite for more such awareness events.