Maharashtra Issues New Redevelopment GR Mandating 51% Physical Attendance

The Maharashtra state government has introduced a new redevelopment framework through a Government Resolution issued on September 30, overhauling the procedural guidelines governing housing societies across the state, including Mumbai.

Under the newly notified rules, housing societies undertaking redevelopment must now ensure a minimum of 51 per cent physical attendance of members during critical decision-making meetings. The framework also makes voting by secret ballot mandatory to determine society decisions regarding projects.

In addition to the attendance and voting rules, the government directive requires competitive and public tendering for the selection of builders. It also mandates registered accommodation agreements to protect the interests of society residents.

The regulatory changes place tighter scrutiny on housing society office-bearers and introduce more stringent developer selection protocols. The framework seeks to enhance safeguards for members throughout the redevelopment lifecycle.

Despite the reform, questions and concerns have emerged regarding the practical implementation of the resolution. Observers, including Prakash Darekar, have highlighted issues concerning the expanded powers granted to registrars, potential transparency lapses, and whether the measures will prevent closed-door negotiations and developer influence or simply add administrative paperwork.