Introduction:
Marriage laws in India vary based on the religion and personal laws of the individuals getting married. However, for individuals who do not wish to be governed by their respective religious laws or for those belonging to different religions, the Special Marriage Act, 1954, provides an alternative option. In this blog post, we will take a closer look at the Special Marriage Act, 1954, and its provisions.
What is The Special Marriage Act, 1954?
The Special Marriage Act, 1954, is a secular law that provides a legal framework for individuals belonging to different religions or for those who do not wish to be governed by their respective personal laws to get married. This act applies to all citizens of India, including those residing outside India, and provides for the registration of marriages between two individuals who are not governed by any personal law.
Key Provisions of The Special Marriage Act, 1954:
The Special Marriage Act, 1954, contains several key provisions, including:
- The minimum age of marriage is 21 years for males and 18 years for females
- A notice of intention to marry must be given to the Marriage Officer at least 30 days prior to the wedding
- Both parties must be present at the time of the wedding ceremony
- The wedding ceremony must be performed in the presence of three witnesses
- Divorce can be obtained under the grounds specified in the act
The Procedure for Marriage under The Special Marriage Act, 1954:
The procedure for getting married under The Special Marriage Act, 1954, involves the following steps:
- Giving a notice of intention to marry to the Marriage Officer
- Appearing for a counseling session (if necessary)
- Waiting for a period of 30 days
- Performing the wedding ceremony in the presence of three witnesses
- Registering the marriage with the Marriage Officer
Conclusion:
The Special Marriage Act, 1954, provides a secular alternative for individuals belonging to different religions or those who do not wish to be governed by their respective personal laws to get married. This act contains several key provisions, including minimum age of marriage, notice period, and procedure for divorce, and provides a legal framework for individuals to get married and start a family. It is important for individuals seeking to get married under this act to be familiar with its provisions and follow the necessary steps to ensure that their marriage is legally recognized.
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