Can Our Trade Union Committee Co-opt More Members Amid Resignations and Calls for Dissolution?

Our trade union currently consists of 1,500 members. Recently, the committee co-opted two workers as committee members, replacing one member who tragically passed away in an accident and another who resigned. Now, there are a number of other individuals expressing a desire to resign from the working committee. The question arises whether the committee has the authority to co-opt additional workers as committee members or if there is a limit to the total number of co-options. The total committee power stands at 11.

Dissolution of the Committee

Some workers are calling for the dissolution of the committee, but the leaders are opposed to this. While a few are willing to resign and dissolve the committee, the question remains whether the president and secretary can co-opt more workers into the working committee if several leaders resign.

Under the Trade Union Act of 1926, a trade union in India has the power to make its own rules regarding the administration and management of the union, which includes the appointment and replacement of committee members.

If your trade union constitution allows co-opting of members, then it is possible to co-opt more workers as committee members. However, the total number of members in the committee should not exceed the limit set by the constitution of your trade union, which in your case is 11.

Here's a possible course of action:

1. Check the constitution of your trade union regarding the co-opting of members. It should provide guidelines on how and when members can be co-opted into the committee.

2. If the constitution allows for co-option but doesn't specify a limit, then it's possible to co-opt more members into the committee. However, the total number of committee members should not exceed 11.

3. If some members wish to dissolve the committee, they would need to follow the procedure outlined in the union's constitution. Typically, this involves a vote by the general membership of the union.

4. If the president and secretary wish to co-opt more members in case of resignations, they will have to follow the rules and procedures set out in the union's constitution.

Remember, any changes in the composition of the committee must be made in accordance with the union's constitution. Any violation of these rules could lead to legal challenges. It would be advisable to consult with a legal expert familiar with trade union laws in India to ensure that all actions are legally sound.