The cooperative election authority for Kolhapur Zilla Sahakari Dudh Utpadak Sangh, widely known as Gokul Dairy, has distributed nomination forms to 4,198 primary milk societies across the district. Each society is required to nominate one representative to cast a vote in the upcoming election.
Reduction in Electoral Roll
The current number of eligible societies is significantly lower than the initial electoral roll of 5,470 societies. This reduction follows objections raised regarding the eligibility of several societies, with allegations that they were registered unlawfully. The Bombay High Court's Kolhapur bench intervened, directing the cooperative election authority to scrutinize the disputed societies through a due-hearing process within 80 days.
Process of Nomination
According to a senior official involved in the process, the prescribed formats have been sent to the eligible societies. Each society must fill out the form with a majority decision, naming the individual who will vote on their behalf. The official stated, "As per the schedule declared to prepare the electoral roll, we have sent prescribed formats to the eligible 4,198 societies, which the societies have to fill in, with a majority decision, naming the person who will vote on their behalf."
Liquidation of Societies
Officials have confirmed that 968 milk societies have been liquidated so far. The reasons for liquidation vary. Some societies were affiliated three months after registration, while others had no records of supplying milk to the dairy. The official added, "The reasons for liquidation are different, some were affiliated three months after registration, and some had no records of supplying milk to the dairy."
This election process is crucial for the governance of Gokul Dairy, which plays a significant role in the dairy sector of Kolhapur. The cooperative election authority is ensuring transparency and adherence to legal procedures as directed by the high court.
