With the increasing popularity of online food and grocery delivery services such as Swiggy, Zepto, Blinkit, Zomato, and BigBasket, residents of cooperative housing societies rely heavily on timely deliveries. However, some societies impose restrictions on delivery personnel entering individual floors or flats, requiring members to collect their parcels from the lobby or main gate. This situation raises the question of whether the managing committee has the authority to impose such a rule and what rights the members have in response.
Authority of the Managing Committee vs. General Body
The managing committee administers the society as per bye laws and directions of the general body. It does not have the unilateral authority to create rules that affect the rights and conveniences of members without obtaining approval from the general body.
Therefore, before implementing restrictions regarding delivery services, the committee must:
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Present the proposal in the general body meeting
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Seek members’ approval through voting
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Issue an official circular if approved
If the rule has been imposed solely by the managing committee without general body approval, members may formally object and request reconsideration.
When the General Body Approves the Rule
If the general body has passed a resolution restricting delivery personnel from accessing individual flats, the decision becomes binding on all members. Such rules may be introduced due to safety concerns or past incidents such as:
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Security risks or unauthorized entry
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Inconvenience caused by repeated doorbell ringing
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Theft or disturbance in the premises
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Increased movement of outsiders affecting privacy
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Protection of senior citizens, women living alone, and children
In such cases, the managing committee is obligated to enforce the decision for the welfare of all residents.
Balancing Convenience and Safety
While many residents appreciate the convenience of doorstep delivery, others may support restrictions for security or privacy. Both perspectives are valid and require a balanced approach. For example:
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Residents may agree to limit access to delivery personnel only to the lift lobby of each wing
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Alternatively, societies may introduce digital pass systems, visitor registration apps, or identity verification at the gate
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Exceptions may be granted for senior citizens, persons with disabilities, medical emergencies, illness, or special needs
Resolving Disputes or Inconveniences
If members disagree with the imposed restrictions, they may:
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Submit a written request to the committee for review
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Ask for the matter to be included in the next general body meeting agenda
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Propose a balanced policy that safeguards security while ensuring convenience
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Collect signatures to support reconsideration if many residents share the same view
General body decisions have binding authority, but they can always be amended in future meetings.
Conclusion
A society can restrict delivery personnel from entering individual flats only if such a rule has been formally approved by the general body. If the managing committee has independently enforced this rule without members’ approval, it may be challenged. While safety and security are priorities, there must be a balanced approach that considers convenience, technology solutions, and special cases.
Residents may collectively request modifications rather than opposing the rule outright, promoting harmony and effective functioning of the society.
