1. Meaning of a Defunct Society

• A defunct society is one that has ceased to carry out its objectives or operations over a continuous period.
  
• It may have stopped holding meetings, maintaining accounts, or engaging with members.
  
• Such societies often fail to comply with mandatory statutory filings or administrative requirements.
  
• The term is not always legally defined but is recognized based on functional inactivity.
  
• A society may become defunct voluntarily or due to neglect.
  

2. Registrar’s Power to Identify and Act

• The Registrar of Societies has the authority to examine whether a society is active.
  
• If no annual reports, audited accounts, or member records are submitted, the Registrar may issue a notice.
  
• In some states, the Registrar may strike off the society from the register after inquiry.
  
• The society may be marked as “dormant” or “non-compliant” in official records.
  
• Failure to respond to such notices can result in automatic cancellation of registration.
  

3. Consequences of Being Defunct

• A defunct society loses legal recognition and cannot operate as a registered body.
  
• It cannot hold property, enter contracts, or receive donations or grants in its name.
  
• Its bank accounts may be frozen or closed upon notification from the authorities.
  
• It becomes ineligible for tax exemptions or government affiliations.
  
• Members or office bearers may face legal consequences for misuse during the inactive period.
  

4. Revival or Restoration Options

• Some states allow for revival of a defunct society by applying to the Registrar with proper justification.
  
• The society must provide updated records, meeting resolutions, audit reports, and compliance filings.
  
• An affidavit and explanation for the inactivity period are usually required.
  
• Revival is permitted only if the society’s original purpose is still valid and legal.
  
• If not revived in time, the society must be re-registered as a new entity.
  

5. Preventive Measures for Active Status

• Societies must conduct Annual General Meetings, update their membership records, and maintain books of accounts.
  
• Filing of annual statements, changes in office bearers, and activity reports with the Registrar is essential.
  
• Even if activities are minimal, symbolic or administrative action should be recorded and reported.
  
• Regular audits, meeting resolutions, and internal documentation help prove activity.
  

Compliance ensures that the society retains its legal status and funding eligibility.