I want to become a member of a cooperative housing society in Kolkata, what are the eligibility requirements?

Membership of a cooperative housing society is governed by the cooperative societies law of the state and the bye-laws of the society. In Kolkata, you must apply for membership to the managing committee of the society along with the prescribed fee and documents. The Calcutta High Court has held that membership cannot be arbitrarily refused and the society must act in accordance with its bye-laws. West Bengal Premises Tenancy Act 1997 may prescribe the eligibility criteria such as age, residence, and ownership of a flat in the society's building. The managing committee must consider the application within the time prescribed by the law and communicate its decision. If membership is refused, you can appeal to the Registrar of Cooperative Societies. As a member, you have the right to vote, contest elections, and participate in general body meetings. You must comply with the bye-laws and pay the maintenance charges and other dues regularly.