1. Purpose of This Policy
        Kilkenny Malayali Association (KMA) is committed to ensuring that membership is granted fairly, transparently, and in alignment with our community values. This policy outlines who is eligible to become a member, what information is required, and how membership is verified and maintained.
      2. ⁠Who Is Eligible for Membership?
         
        Membership in KMA is open to individuals who:
         
        2.1 Residency Requirement
        •Must be residing in Kilkenny County.
        2.2 Cultural or Family Connection to Kerala
        An individual must meet at least one of the following criteria:
        •Malayali by birth (born to at least one parent originally from Kerala)
        •A person who has adopted Kerala as his/her state
        •Spouse of a Malayali who meets the above definition
        2.3 Age Requirement
        •Adults aged 18 and above who meet the above criteria are eligible for full membership.
        •Children below 18 years may be added under Family Membership, but this does not constitute full voting membership.
        2.4 Suspension Restriction
        •Any individual who is currently under suspension from KMA is not eligible to apply for new membership or renew membership during the suspension period.
        •Membership applications received during an active suspension will be automatically rejected.
      3. ⁠Membership Verification Process
         
        KMA follows a verification procedure to ensure eligibility:
        3.1.Applicants submit their membership form with accurate personal details.
        3.2.The Executive Committee verifies the information provided.
        3.3.If the details meet eligibility requirements, membership is approved.
        3.4.If incorrect or false information is identified, the membership request will be rejected.
         
      4. Types of Membership
         
        4.1 Individual Membership
        •For one adult meeting eligibility criteria.
        •Requires payment of the individual membership fee.
         
        4.2 Family Membership
        •Includes:
        •One or More adults of the same family
        •Children under 18 residing at the same address
        •Each member will be recorded individually in the registry.
      5. ⁠Membership Fees
        •€5 per year — Individual
        •€10 per year — Family
        •Membership term: 1 December to 30 November
      6.  ⁠Rights of Members
         
        6.1 Full Members (18+)
        •Can vote during General Body meetings
        •Can participate in events
        •Can be nominated for committee positions
         
        6.2 Children (Under 18)
        •Can participate in KMA events
        •Cannot vote or hold office
      7.  ⁠Member Responsibilities
         
        All members are expected to:
        •Provide accurate information during registration
        •Update KMA of any changes in contact details
        •Adhere to the association’s Code of Conduct
        •Respect KMA’s cultural, social, and community values
      8.  ⁠Consent & Personal Information
         
        Membership applicants must confirm that:
        •They have read and agree to the KMA Privacy Policy
        •The information provided is true to the best of their knowledge
        •They understand that membership may be refused or revoked if eligibility criteria are not met.
      9.  ⁠Contact Us
         
        If you have questions about membership eligibility, please contact:
        📩 kilkennymalayaliassociation@gmail.com or info@kilkennymalayaliassociation.com
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