How does a co-operative society exemplify democracy and secularism? Explain
The word co-operative means working together with others for a common purpose. The co-operative society is a voluntary association of persons, who join together with the motive of the welfare of the members. The membership of a co-operative society is voluntary. A person is free to join a co-operative society and can also leave anytime without any compulsion. The decision making power in a co-operative society lies in the hands of an elected managing committee. Every member has one vote and this right to vote gives the members a chance to elect the members of the managing committee. All these features lend the co-operative society a democratic character. Further, the membership of a co-operative society is open to all, irrespective of their religion, caste and gender. The co-operative society through its purpose lays emphasis on the values of mutual help and welfare. These features prove the secular nature of co-operative societies.