Oppression and Mismanagement in a Company

Jun 12, 2025
Private Limited Company vs. Limited Liability Partnerships

As companies grow and evolve, differences of opinion and disputes naturally arise, sometimes over strategy, sometimes over control, and sometimes over financial decisions.

While many of these conflicts can be managed through negotiation or internal governance mechanisms, certain situations can cross a line, leading to behaviour that harms the rights of minority shareholders or threatens the health of the company itself. This is where the law draws a clear boundary.

When such conduct becomes oppressive, abusive, or results in serious mismanagement, the Indian legal system provides special protections under the Companies Act, 2013. These protections are crucial because, without them, minority shareholders and the company could suffer long-term damage.

In this blog, we’ll explore the meaning of oppression and mismanagement, explain the legal remedies available under Sections 241–246 of the Companies Act, and guide you through who can file a complaint, when, and how.

Table of Contents

Defining Oppression and Mismanagement

The Companies Act, 2013, does not explicitly define oppression and mismanagement. Instead, their meanings have evolved through judicial interpretations and case law.

In simple terms:

  • Oppression involves burdensome, harsh, or wrongful conduct toward minority shareholders. It typically refers to situations where the majority shareholders abuse their power to harm the minority's rights or interests.

  • Mismanagement refers to gross mismanagement of company affairs, which could lead to financial loss or harm to the company’s reputation or operations. It often involves negligence, fraud, or actions taken in bad faith by those in control.

Legal Remedies under Sections 241–246

Sections 241 to 246 of the Companies Act, 2013 empower company members to approach the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) if they believe the company’s affairs are being conducted in a manner that amounts to oppression or mismanagement.

If the tribunal is satisfied, it can order remedies such as:

  • Regulation of the company’s future conduct
  • Removal of directors
  • Termination, modification, or setting aside of certain agreements
  • Recovery of misappropriated funds
  • Preventive actions to safeguard the company’s interests

A Detailed Explanation of Section 241

Section 241 of the Companies Act, 2013 is the core provision that allows members to seek relief from oppression and mismanagement.

Section 241 exists to protect minority shareholders and the company itself from conduct that threatens their interests. It ensures that no shareholder or director misuses their powers to the detriment of others or the company.

Under Section 241, a member can apply to the NCLT if:

  • The company’s affairs are being conducted in a manner oppressive to any member(s).
  • There has been mismanagement that threatens to cause serious prejudice to the interests of the company, members, or the public.

How can an Application be made under Section 241?

Filing an application under Section 241 involves a specific legal process:

Who Can Apply?

Eligible members include:

  • Shareholders holding at least 10% of the company’s issued share capital
  • In companies without share capital, at least 1/5th of the total number of members
    In certain cases, members may request NCLT permission to file even if they do not meet the above thresholds (especially where the majority is acting in bad faith).

Grounds for Filing

The application must clearly describe:

  • Acts of oppression (specific conduct harming member rights)
  • Acts of mismanagement (negligence, fraud, misconduct, etc.)
  • Resulting harm to the company or its members

Documentation Required

  • Petition/application under Section 241
  • Evidence of shareholding or membership eligibility
  • Documentary proof of oppressive/mismanaged conduct
  • Affidavit verifying the facts
  • Court fees as prescribed

Where to File?

Applications must be filed with the relevant bench of the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) having jurisdiction over the company’s registered office.

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Who Can File an Application under Section 241 of the Companies Act, 2013?

Eligibility to file under Section 241 depends on the applicant’s status and shareholding:

H3 - Category H3 - Minimum threshold to apply
Shareholders in companies with share capital Minimum 10% of the issued share capital
Members of companies without share capital At least 1/5th of the total number of members
Exception (with NCLT permission) Members who can demonstrate exceptional circumstances, such as fraud or bad faith actions by the majority

In addition, the Central Government can also apply under Section 241(2) if it believes the affairs of the company are conducted in a manner prejudicial to public interest.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Oppression and Mismanagement under the Companies Act, 2013?

Oppression refers to conduct by the majority or those in control of a company that is burdensome, harsh, or wrongful to minority shareholders or other members. This includes denying members their rights, misusing powers, or making decisions that unfairly prejudice certain shareholders.

Mismanagement involves irregular, dishonest, or inefficient management that could harm the company’s affairs, financial health, or reputation. This may include siphoning off funds, non-compliance with the law, or actions detrimental to the company’s interests.

What are Sections 241 and 242 of the Companies Act, 2013?

  • Section 241 allows a company member (with the required shareholding) to file a complaint to the NCLT if they believe:
    • The affairs of the company are being conducted in a manner oppressive to any member or prejudicial to public interest or company interest.
    • There has been mismanagement that may harm the company’s business or finances.

  • Section 242 outlines the powers of the NCLT to provide remedies if it finds the complaint valid. These remedies include:
    • Removing directors
    • Regulating the conduct of the company’s affairs
    • Cancelling or modifying agreements
    • Restricting share transfers
    • Any other order to bring an end to the matters complained of

Can a suit be filed without notice?

In general, civil suits require prior notice if specified under law or contract. However, in urgent or exceptional cases (e.g., injunctions or matters of immediate harm), courts may allow filing without notice to the other party initially—this is called ex parte action. But such relief is usually temporary, and notice must follow.

Can a company file a case against an employee?

Yes, a company can file a legal case against an employee in situations such as:

  • Breach of employment contract
  • Theft or misappropriation of company assets
  • Violation of confidentiality or non-compete clauses
  • Harassment or misconduct
  • Fraud or criminal activity

The nature of the case (civil or criminal) will determine whether it is filed in a civil court, criminal court, or through a regulatory body like the labor commissioner or cybercrime unit.

Nipun Jain

Nipun Jain is a seasoned startup leader with 13+ years of experience across zero-to-one journeys, leading enterprise sales, partnerships, and strategy at high-growth startups. He currently heads Razorpay Rize, where he's building India's most loved startup enablement program and launched Rize Incorporation to simplify company registration for founders.

Previously, he founded Natty Niños and scaled it before exiting in 2021, then led enterprise growth at Pickrr Technologies, contributing to its $200M acquisition by Shiprocket. A builder at heart, Nipun loves numbers, stories and simplifying complex processes.

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Related Posts

Registering a Freelance Business in India: What You Need to Know

Registering a Freelance Business in India: What You Need to Know

The freedom to work on your own terms, choose your clients, and chart your career path makes freelancing an attractive option for many Indians today. With the rise of the digital economy, more professionals are ditching traditional jobs in favour of independent work.

Along with flexibility and autonomy comes the responsibility of understanding the legal, tax, and business aspects of freelancing in India. Many beginners wonder:

  • Do I need to register as a freelancer?
  • What about taxes and GST?
  • How do I protect myself legally with clients?

We’ll simplify everything you need to know, from why freelancing is worth considering to taxes, contracts, and registration requirements, so you can confidently start your freelance journey.

Table of Contents

Why Start Your Own Freelancing Business in India?

Freelancing is much more than just escaping the 9-to-5 grind. It’s a path to professional freedom and personal growth. Here’s why many choose to start their freelance business in India:

  • Independence: You control your schedule, projects, and clients.
  • Earning Potential: With the right skills, you can earn more than a fixed salary, often in foreign currency.
  • Learning Curve: Freelancing pushes you to learn business skills, client management, negotiation, and personal branding that regular jobs may not offer.
  • Creative Freedom: You get to work on diverse projects across industries, honing your skills and building a versatile portfolio.
  • Work-Life Balance: Freelancers often have more flexibility to balance personal and professional commitments.

If you value autonomy and are willing to take charge of your career, freelancing can be a rewarding and liberating choice.

Turn your freelance hustle into a registered business—get started with expert-led Company registration today.

What Are the Benefits of Freelancing in India?

Freelancing in India comes with tangible benefits that extend beyond financial gains:

1. Flexibility and Remote Work

Work from anywhere, anytime. Freelancers aren’t tied to office spaces or strict schedules, making it easier to balance other life priorities.

2. Access to Global Clients

With platforms like Upwork, Fiverr, LinkedIn, and direct outreach, Indian freelancers have access to clients worldwide and often earn in USD, EUR, or GBP.

3. Diverse Projects and Skill Growth

You can work on multiple projects across different industries, which accelerates skill development and keeps work exciting.

4. Building a Personal Brand and Network

Freelancing pushes you to market yourself, opening doors to collaborations, partnerships, and a professional network that can lead to bigger opportunities.

5. Control Over Earnings

Unlike fixed salaries, freelancing income has the potential to grow as your skills, client base, and rates increase.

Freelancer’s Tax in India

As a freelancer, you’re considered a self-employed professional under Indian tax laws. Here’s what you need to know about taxes:

GST for Freelancers

If your annual turnover exceeds ₹20 lakh (₹10 lakh for Northeastern states), GST registration is mandatory under the GST Act. GST applies at 18% for most professional services, but you can claim Input Tax Credit on business-related expenses.

Freelance Income Tax

Freelancers are taxed under the “Profits and Gains from Business or Profession” head. You are subject to regular income tax slabs applicable to individuals.

Feature Description
Shared Objectives Both aim to achieve mutual business goals.
Resource Pooling Involves combining assets, expertise, or capital.
Contract-Based Governed by agreements that outline roles, rights, and responsibilities.
Profit Sharing Both involve sharing profits, though the ratio may differ.
Collaborative Decision-Making Decisions are made collectively or as per agreed terms.
Risk Sharing Losses and liabilities are often shared based on contribution or agreement.

Freelance Contract

A written agreement between a freelancer and a client that clearly outlines the scope of work, payment terms, deadlines, and other important conditions of the project. It helps protect both parties by setting clear expectations and serves as a legal safeguard in case of disputes.

Key Clauses to Include in a Freelance Contract:

  1. Scope of Work: Define the exact services you will provide. Include deliverables, timelines, and expectations.

  2. Payment Terms: Payment amount, mode, currency, and schedule. Specify advance payments, milestones, and late fees.

  3. Confidentiality Clause: Protect sensitive client information and intellectual property rights.

  4. Termination Clause: Define under what circumstances either party can terminate the contract.

  5. Revision & Change Requests: Set clear terms for additional work or revisions.

  6. Dispute Resolution: Choose a method for resolving disagreements (e.g., mediation, arbitration).

  7. Jurisdiction Clause: State the legal jurisdiction under which the contract will be governed (Indian Contract Act, 1872).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do freelancers pay tax in India?

Yes, they do. Freelancers in India are taxed just like any other self-employed individual. Your freelance income is treated as “Profits and Gains from Business or Profession” under the Income Tax Act, and you need to pay tax based on your total annual income.

Do freelancers need to file an ITR?

Yes, if your total income exceeds ₹2.5 lakhs in a financial year (₹3 lakhs if you're above 60), filing an Income Tax Return (ITR) is mandatory. Most freelancers use ITR-3 or ITR-4 (under the Presumptive Taxation Scheme), depending on their income and the nature of their business.

What is the TDS rate for freelancers?

If a client pays you more than ₹30,000 in a financial year, they’re usually required to deduct 10% TDS (Tax Deducted at Source) under Section 194J before making the payment. This amount gets credited to your PAN, and you can adjust it while filing your ITR.

Do freelancers need to pay both GST and income tax?

It depends.

  • Income Tax is always applicable if your annual income crosses the basic exemption limit.

GST (Goods and Services Tax) is required only if your annual turnover exceeds ₹20 lakhs (₹10 lakhs for special category states) or if you work with clients outside India (export of services), in which case registration is often recommended, even if optional.

Sarthak Goyal

Sarthak Goyal is a Chartered Accountant with 10+ years of experience in business process consulting, internal audits, risk management, and Virtual CFO services. He cleared his CA at 21, began his career in a PSU, and went on to establish a successful ₹8 Cr+ e-commerce venture.

He has since advised ₹200–1000 Cr+ companies on streamlining operations, setting up audit frameworks, and financial monitoring. A community builder for finance professionals and an amateur writer, Sarthak blends deep finance expertise with an entrepreneurial spirit and a passion for continuous learning.

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Top 8 Government Schemes for Startups in India- Razorpay Rize

Top 8 Government Schemes for Startups in India- Razorpay Rize

Starting a business comes with its fair share of challenges. Fortunately, the Indian government has recognized the importance of startups in driving innovation and economic growth, and they've rolled out a range of initiatives to support budding entrepreneurs like you.

In this blog, we're going to take you on a guided tour of these government schemes, offering insights into what they offer, who's eligible, and how they can benefit your startup.

Table of Contents

Why are Government Schemes important for Startups?

Government support plays a pivotal role in nurturing and sustaining startups for several reasons:

1. Access to Funding

  • Government-backed schemes and initiatives provide access to funding and financial assistance, which is crucial for startups, especially in their early stages of development.
  • These funds can help cover initial capital expenditures, research and development costs, and other operational expenses.

2. Regulatory Support

  • Governments often create favorable regulatory environments and offer incentives such as tax breaks, exemptions, and subsidies to encourage entrepreneurship and innovation.

3. Infrastructure Development

  • Government investment in infrastructure development, including technology parks, startup incubators, and innovation hubs, provides startups with access to essential resources, facilities, and networking opportunities.

4. Skill Development and Training

  • Government-sponsored programs and initiatives focus on skill development, entrepreneurship training, and capacity-building for aspiring entrepreneurs. By imparting essential business skills, knowledge, and mentorship, governments empower startups to navigate challenges effectively.

5. Market Access and Promotion

  • Government initiatives aim to facilitate market access for startups by promoting domestic and international trade, fostering industry partnerships, and facilitating market linkages through trade fairs, exhibitions, and business delegations.

6. Innovation and Research Support

  • Governments incentivize research and innovation through grants, subsidies, and funding programs aimed at supporting startups engaged in technology development, product innovation, and scientific research.

7. Job Creation and Economic Growth

  • Government support for startups leads to the creation of new job opportunities, stimulates economic activity, and contributes to GDP growth by fostering entrepreneurship, innovation, and productivity.

List of Government Schemes for Startups in India

Name of the Scheme Description Who is it for? Benefits
Startup India Seed Fund Scheme To provide monetary support for proof of concept, prototype development, product trials, market, and commercialization Startups using Technology as their core product or service Under this scheme, Financial assistance up to Rs. 50 lakh will be provided to startups at an early stage through incubators
Women Entrepreneurship Platform (WEP) To promote women entrepreneurship in the country by empowering them through financial aid and mentoring For Women Entrepreneurs Apart from providing incubation & acceleration, this scheme offers mentorship and financial and marketing assistance.
Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana (PMMY) To loan funds in the form of MUDRA for promoting MSMEs For small-scale businesses & MSMEs Business loans ranging from Rs. 50,000 to Rs. 10 lakh can be applied under this scheme, which is divided into three categories: Sishu, Kishor, and Tarun.
Promoting Innovations in Individuals, Startups and MSMEs (PRISM) To provide grants, technical advice, and mentorship to individual innovators, guiding them through the various stages of incubating their ideas until they transform into viable enterprises For Innovators in the technology area Upto INR 2,00,000 or 90% of the approved project cost for prototype or model development
Support for International Patent Protection in Electronics & Information Technology (SIP-EIT) To foster innovation by providing financial support to MSMEs and Technology Startup units for international patent filing For MSMEs and Technology startups A maximum reimbursement of Rs. 15 Lakhs per invention or 50% of the total charges incurred in filing and processing a patent application, whichever is lesser
Credit Guarantee Fund To improve the credit delivery system and make credit more accessible to small and medium-sized businesses For Micro and Small Enterprises Collateral-free loans up to a limit of Rs. 200 lakh are available for individual MSE
Startup Accelerators of MeitY for Product Innovation, Development, and Growth (SAMRIDH) To provide funding support to the tech and software startups with proof of concept & innovations For Tech & Software startups Under this scheme, startups can get funding of up to Rs. 40 lakhs based on current valuation and growth stage through selected accelerators.
Nidhi Seed Support System (NIDHI-SSS) To provide financial assistance to startups for proof of concept, prototype development, product trials, market entry and commercialization, etc. For MSMEs and Technology startups Financial Support up to Rs. 100 lakhs per start-up as Seed Support

To conclude, the government of India has been actively participating in boosting the startup ecosystem, and numerous initiatives are launched each financial year to contribute to the growth of MSMEs. For detailed features, eligibility, process and benefits, visit the respective page for schemes and if you feel any of these schemes can give wings to your startup dreams, you can go through the given details and apply.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Partnership? Features, Types and Benefits

What is Partnership? Features, Types and Benefits

A partnership is a formal arrangement where two or more parties come together to manage and operate a business. Partnerships are a common way for individuals and entities to pool resources, expertise, and efforts to achieve shared goals. They can take various forms, such as general and limited liability partnerships, each with unique characteristics.

Unlike running a business alone, a partnership fosters teamwork, shared decision-making, and mutual responsibility. In a partnership, profits, liabilities, and operational responsibilities are typically shared among partners according to the terms of a partnership agreement.  It’s a model built on trust and cooperation, making it a popular choice for startups and growing businesses.

In this blog, we’ll explore partnerships, their key features, and why they’re an attractive option for many entrepreneurs looking to build something together.

Table of Contents

Features of Partnerships

Partnerships are defined by several key features:

  • Shared Responsibilities: Partners collaborate on business operations, contributing their expertise, resources, and capital to achieve mutual goals.
  • Shared Resources: Partnerships allow the pooling of financial and intellectual resources, enhancing operational efficiency.
  • Shared Goals: Partners align on strategic objectives to grow the business and share in its success.
  • Flexibility: Partnerships can be structured to suit specific needs, from informal agreements to formal legal contracts.
  • Decision-Making Process: Decision-making is often a collective process, emphasising the importance of trust and mutual understanding among partners.
  • Legal Agreements: While partnerships can be informal, formal agreements provide clarity on roles, profit-sharing, and conflict resolution.
  • Dissolution: Partnerships can be dissolved legally if required, often guided by the terms of the agreement or applicable laws.

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Types of Partnerships

There are various types of partnerships, each serving different purposes and offering distinct advantages. For-profit partnerships generally fall into three main categories:

1. General Partnership

In a general partnership, all partners share equal responsibility for the business’s liabilities and profits. Each partner is personally liable for the business’s debts, making it crucial to draft a partnership agreement that outlines profit-sharing, roles, and responsibilities. 

For example, two entrepreneurs starting a retail business together would likely form a general partnership.

2. Limited Partnership

Limited partnerships (LPs) feature both general partners and limited (or silent) partners. General partners manage the business and assume entire liability, while limited partners contribute capital and enjoy liability protection up to the amount they invest. 

An example might be a real estate development project funded by silent investors.

3. Limited Liability Partnership

Limited liability partnerships (LLPs) protect partners’ personal assets by limiting liability for business debts. LLPs are particularly common in professions like law and accounting, where personal liability is a significant concern. 

For example, in a law firm LLP, equity partners own a share of the business, while salaried partners do not hold ownership but receive bonuses tied to performance.

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What is the Partnership Act 1932?

The Partnership Act of 1932 is a legal framework governing partnerships in India. Key provisions include:

  • Definition and Formation: Outlining what constitutes a partnership and the requirements for its formation.
  • Rights and Duties: Defining the rights, responsibilities, and liabilities of partners.
  • Partnership Agreements: Emphasising the importance of clear agreements to avoid disputes.
  • Dissolution: Providing guidelines for legally dissolving a partnership.

The Act ensures transparency and fairness in business partnerships, making it a crucial reference for anyone entering into such arrangements.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Partnerships

Advantages

  • Easy to establish and operate
  • Shared financial and intellectual resources
  • Tax benefits, such as pass-through taxation
  • Flexible business structure

Disadvantages

  • Unlimited liability for general partners
  • Potential for conflicts among partners
  • Limited lifespan unless explicitly agreed otherwise
  • Shared profits

How to Form a Partnership?

Below are the steps for the partnership registration process:

  1. Draft a Partnership Agreement: Clearly outline roles, profit-sharing, and dispute-resolution mechanisms.
  2. Register the Partnership: Depending on the jurisdiction, registration may be required.
  3. Obtain Necessary Licenses and Permits: Ensure compliance with local regulations.
  4. Set Up Operations: Establish the business’s infrastructure and processes.

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Partnerships vs. Companies

Choosing the right business structure is one of the most critical decisions for any entrepreneur. While partnerships and companies are both popular choices, they differ significantly in terms of ownership, liability, management, and regulatory requirements. 

Each structure has its own advantages and challenges, making it essential to understand which one aligns best with your business goals.

Feature Partnership Company
Legal status No separate legal entity Separate legal entity
Liability Unlimited (except LLPs) Limited
Profit distribution Shared among partners Distributed as dividends
Management Managed by partners Managed by the board of directors

Partnerships are generally more flexible but come with higher personal risk, whereas companies provide greater liability protection but involve more regulatory requirements.

Related Read: Private Limited Company Vs. Limited Liability Partnerships (LLP)

Frequently Asked Questions

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Private Limited Company
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1,499 + Govt. Fee
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  • Service-based businesses
  • Businesses looking to issue shares
  • Businesses seeking investment through equity-based funding


Limited Liability Partnership
(LLP)

1,499 + Govt. Fee
BEST SUITED FOR
  • Professional services 
  • Firms seeking any capital contribution from Partners
  • Firms sharing resources with limited liability 

One Person Company
(OPC)

1,499 + Govt. Fee
BEST SUITED FOR
  • Freelancers, Small-scale businesses
  • Businesses looking for minimal compliance
  • Businesses looking for single-ownership

Private Limited Company
(Pvt. Ltd.)

1,499 + Govt. Fee
BEST SUITED FOR
  • Service-based businesses
  • Businesses looking to issue shares
  • Businesses seeking investment through equity-based funding


One Person Company
(OPC)

1,499 + Govt. Fee
BEST SUITED FOR
  • Freelancers, Small-scale businesses
  • Businesses looking for minimal compliance
  • Businesses looking for single-ownership

Private Limited Company
(Pvt. Ltd.)

1,499 + Govt. Fee
BEST SUITED FOR
  • Service-based businesses
  • Businesses looking to issue shares
  • Businesses seeking investment through equity-based funding


Limited Liability Partnership
(LLP)

1,499 + Govt. Fee
BEST SUITED FOR
  • Professional services 
  • Firms seeking any capital contribution from Partners
  • Firms sharing resources with limited liability 

Frequently Asked Questions

How Does a Partnership Differ From Other Forms of Business Organisation?

A partnership differs from other business structures like sole proprietorships, limited liability companies (LLCs), and corporations primarily in ownership, liability, and decision-making.

What Is a Limited Partnership vs. a Limited Liability Partnership?

A Limited Partnership (LP) and a Limited Liability Partnership (LLP) are two distinct types of partnerships:

  • Limited Partnership (LP):
    • Composed of general partners who manage the business and have unlimited liability and limited partners who contribute capital but have liability only up to their investment.
    • Common in investment ventures where limited partners provide funds, and general partners manage the operations.
  • Limited Liability Partnership (LLP):
    • All partners have limited liability, protecting them from personal responsibility for the business’s debts.
    • Ideal for professional businesses like law firms or accounting firms, where partners share management duties but seek protection from personal liabilities.

Do Partnerships Pay Taxes?

Partnerships themselves do not pay income taxes. Instead, they are considered pass-through entities, meaning that the partnership’s profits and losses are passed through to individual partners. 

Each partner reports their share of the partnership’s income on their personal tax return, where they are taxed based on their portion of the profit.

What Types of Businesses Are Best suited for Partnerships?

Partnerships are well-suited for businesses that benefit from shared expertise and resources. Some ideal types include:

  • Professional Services: Law firms, accounting firms, and medical practices, where partners bring specialised skills.
  • Family Businesses: Small family-owned businesses where partners are trusted to work together.
  • Creative Industries: Advertising agencies, design firms, or production companies that require collaborative efforts.
  • Startups: Early-stage businesses that need multiple people to contribute capital, ideas, and effort but do not want the complexity of a corporation.

What is a partnership, and how does it work?

A partnership is a business arrangement where two or more individuals share ownership and management responsibilities, pooling resources to run the business. The partners agree on how profits, losses, and responsibilities will be shared, typically outlined in a partnership agreement.

The partnership can be structured in various ways, such as general partnerships or limited partnerships, depending on the desired level of liability and control. 

What are the different types of partnership working?

There are several types of partnership structures based on liability and management involvement:

  • General Partnership
  • Limited Partnership (LP)
  • Limited Liability Partnership (LLP)
  • Joint Venture

Who is a secret partner?

A secret partner is a business partner who contributes capital and shares in the profits and losses but does not take part in the day-to-day management or operations of the business. Unlike a dormant or silent partner, a secret partner’s identity is not disclosed to the public or clients but is still legally bound by the partnership’s obligations and liabilities.

How many types of partners are there?

In a partnership, there are four main types of partners:

  1. Active Partner: Actively participates in the management of the business and shares in both profits and liabilities.
  2. Sleeping (or Dormant) Partner: Invests capital but does not participate in day-to-day management; however, they share in profits and losses.
  3. Secret Partner: A partner whose identity is kept hidden from the public but participates in the partnership’s activities and shares in profits and liabilities.
  4. Limited Partner: A partner who contributes capital but has limited liability, meaning they are only liable up to the amount they have invested in the business.

Nipun Jain

Nipun Jain is a seasoned startup leader with 13+ years of experience across zero-to-one journeys, leading enterprise sales, partnerships, and strategy at high-growth startups. He currently heads Razorpay Rize, where he's building India's most loved startup enablement program and launched Rize Incorporation to simplify company registration for founders.

Previously, he founded Natty Niños and scaled it before exiting in 2021, then led enterprise growth at Pickrr Technologies, contributing to its $200M acquisition by Shiprocket. A builder at heart, Nipun loves numbers, stories and simplifying complex processes.

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