Voting through electronic means – Clarification
General Circular No. 20/2014, Dated 17th June, 2014
Section 108 of the Companies Act, 2013 read with rule 20 of the Companies (Management and Administration) Rules, 2014 deal with the exercise of right to vote by members by electronic means (e-means). The provisions seek to ensure wider shareholders participation in the decision making process in companies. Corporates and other stakeholders while appreciating the new approach have drawn attention to some practical difficulties in respect of general meetings to be held in the next few months.
The suggestions received from the stakeholders have been examined. It is noticed that compliance with procedural requirements, engagement of Depository Agencies and the need for clarity on matter like demand for poll/ postal ballot etc will take some more time. Accordingly, it has been decided not to treat the relevant provisions as mandatory till 31St December, 2014. The relevant notification in this regard is being issued separately.
To provide clarity and ensure uniformity in the e-voting procedure, clarifications on certain issues raised by the stakeholders are provided in the Annexure to this circular for guidance of all concerned.