What are the qualifications for joining a lodge in India today?

Qualifications for joining a Masonic lodge under the Grand Lodge of India require a candidate to be a man of at least 21 years of age, though a Lewis may join at 18. According to the Grand Lodge of India, he must profess a belief in a Supreme Being and God, as atheists are not admitted, though no specific faith or religion is excluded.

A candidate must offer himself of his own free will and accord, uninfluenced by mercenary motives, improper solicitations, or the expectation of business advancement, as outlined by the Grand Lodge of India. He is expected to possess good character and reputation, being under the tongue of good report and morally upright, as well as personally acceptable to the lodge members. Physically and mentally, the candidate should have a sound body, the use of his limbs, good education and culture, and must not suffer from mental incapacity such as insanity or amnesia.

Financial and personal obligations are also specified by the Grand Lodge of India. Family duties must take priority, and the candidate must be able to afford initiation fees and annual dues without causing financial hardship to himself or his family. Additionally, he must have the time to participate in meetings, typically two to three evenings per month initially and at least one evening per month thereafter, while demonstrating a willingness to conform to the ancient usages and customs of the fraternity and obey summonses from the Worshipful Master.

The ballot for a joining candidate under the Grand Lodge of India requires that the candidate first produce to the Secretary of the Lodge his Grand Lodge Certificate and certificates of good standing or no-dues statements from all lodges of which he is or was a member. The candidate must have been proposed and seconded by subscribing members at a regular meeting, or through written notice transmitted to the Secretary at least fourteen days prior, allowing the ballot to take place at the subsequent regular meeting.

Voting proceeds such that a simple majority of members present and voting is required for the candidate to be accepted, unless the specific by-laws or rules of the lodge specify rejection upon three or more black balls.

Timing and administrative adherence remain strict under the Grand Lodge of India: if the ballot is not taken at the designated meeting, the proposal lapses. Furthermore, if an elected candidate is not initiated within one year of the vote, the election becomes void.