Table of Contents

Director Removal or Resignation in India: Legal Process & Compliance Checklist

1. Introduction

A director plays a crucial role in managing the affairs of a company. However, there may be circumstances where a director chooses to resign or the company decides to remove a director. The Companies Act, 2013 lays down clear procedures for the removal or resignation of director, ensuring transparency and compliance with statutory requirements.

2. Minimum Director Requirement Before Resignation or Removal

As per the Companies Act, 2013, a company must maintain a minimum number of directors:

• One Person Company (OPC): At least one director.

• Private Limited Company: At least two directors.

• Public Limited Company: At least three directors.

Before resigning or removing a director, the company must ensure that the minimum director requirement is met to maintain business continuity.

3. Procedure for Resignation of a Director

3.1 Steps for Resigning Director

a. The director submits a resignation letter to the company, specifying the date of resignation and the reason.

b. The company acknowledges the resignation and calls a Board Meeting with at least seven days’ clear notice.

c. The Board of Directors decides whether to accept the resignation.

d. Once accepted, the board passes a resolution approving the resignation.

e. The company files Form DIR-12 within 30 days with the Registrar of Companies (ROC) to update the director’s resignation.

f. The resigning director files Form DIR-11 to inform the ROC of their resignation.

3.2 Documentation Required

• Resignation Letter

• Board Resolution accepting the resignation

• Form DIR-11 (Notice of resignation by the director to ROC)

• Form DIR-12 (Company’s filing to update directorship changes)

3.3 Consequences of Non-Compliance

Failure to file the necessary forms within the prescribed period may result in penalties for the company and the resigning director. The director remains liable for any acts committed during their tenure until the resignation is officially recorded with the ROC.

4. Procedure for Removal of a Director

4.1 Removal by Company (Suo-Moto)

a. The company calls a Board Meeting with a clear agenda to remove the director.

b. The director is given a chance to be heard before removal.

c. If the board decides to proceed, an Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM) is convened to pass an Ordinary Resolution for removal.

d. The resolution is passed, and Form DIR-12 is filed within 30 days with the ROC.

4.2 Automatic Removal Due to Non-Compliance

• If a director fails to attend three consecutive Board Meetings in a 12-month period without seeking leave, they are deemed to have vacated their position.

• The company must file Form DIR-12 to notify the ROC of this automatic removal.

4.3 Special Cases of Removal

• Directors appointed by the Central Government or Tribunal cannot be removed by the company unless as per specified guidelines.

• Directors appointed as per agreements or contracts with financial institutions may require approvals before removal.

4.4 Documentation Required

• Board Meeting notice and agenda

• Copy of the Ordinary Resolution passed in EGM

• Notice to the director for the hearing opportunity

• Form DIR-12 (Change in directorship details)

5. Case Study: Impact of Non-Compliance

Scenario: A private limited company had only two directors. One director resigned without ensuring compliance with the minimum director requirement.

Consequences:

• The company was non-compliant with the Companies Act, 2013.

• No new director was appointed in time, leading to regulatory penalties.

• Business operations were hampered due to a lack of decision-making authority.

Lesson Learned: Directors must ensure that their resignation does not lead to non-compliance with statutory requirements.

6. How We Can Help

At ReturnFilings.Com, we provide comprehensive support for:

• Director resignation filings (DIR-11 & DIR-12)

• Director removal compliance & documentation

• Legal guidance on regulatory obligations

• Assisting in Board and Shareholder resolutions

By following the correct compliance process for removal or resignation of directors, companies can ensure smooth transitions and avoid legal complications.

We ensure timely and hassle-free compliance so you can focus on growing your business.

For professional assistance, reach out to us on email: info@returnfilings.com or on whatsapp: https://wa.me/919910123091 to ensure all statutory obligations are met on time.

frequently asked questions (faq's) related to Removal and Resignation of Directors in a Company

Q How can a director resign from their position?+

Q Is it necessary for a resigning director to give a reason for their resignation?+

Q What is the procedure for accepting a director's resignation?+

Q What forms need to be filed with the ROC when a director resigns?+

Q What is the effective date of resignation?+

Q Can a director withdraw their resignation after submitting it?+

Q How can a director be removed from their position?+

Q What are the grounds for removing a director?+

Q What is the procedure for removing a director?+

Q What forms need to be filed with the ROC when a director is removed?+

Q Can a director be removed before the expiry of their term?+

Q Can a managing director be removed?+

Q What is the difference between resignation and removal of a director?+

Q What are the consequences of resigning or being removed as a director?+

Q Can a director be reappointed after being removed?+

Q What happens to the director's responsibilities after resignation or removal?+

Q How do I draft a director resignation letter?+

Q What are the legal implications of resigning as a director?+

Q Can a director resign orally?+

Q What is the notice period for a director's resignation?+

Q Can a director be removed without notice?+

Q What is the role of the board of directors in the removal of a director?+

Q How can I find information about directors who have resigned or been removed?+

Q What are the ethical considerations related to director resignation and removal?+

Q Can a director claim compensation for loss of office upon removal?+

Q Where can I find the latest MCA notifications and circulars related to director resignation and removal?+