Explain the provision of Special Marriage Act, 1954 in 500 words
Answers
India follows a very rigid caste system. People are expected to marry within their caste. In some places in India, whoever marries out of their caste and deny their traditions are shunned by the society. Thus, there came a grave need for a law to safeguard the interests of those people who rose above these caste and religious divides, in order to marry for love. So, the Parliament enacted The Special Marriage Act, 1954 which provides for a special form of marriage for the people of India and all Indian nationals in foreign countries, irrespective of the religion or faith followed by either party
What are the conditions for a valid marriage under this Act?
Any two persons belonging to different religions may marry under this Act without changing their religions.
Neither party should have a spouse living at the time of marriage. Widow, widower and a divorcee may exchange wedding vows under this Act.
Neither party should be incapable of giving a valid consent in consequence of unsoundness of mind.
Neither party should be suffering from mental disorder of such a kind or to such an extent as to be unfit for marriage and procreation of children.
Neither party should be suffering from incurable insanity.
Parties should not be within degrees of prohibited relationship.
Age: Bridegroom: 21 years &Bride: 18 years.