No Marriage Without Informing Parents? Gujarat Plans Major Changes to Registration Law

Gujarat: Now it is going to be a bit difficult to have a love marriage in Gujarat, especially if the parents are not aware. The government is going to bring major changes to the 'Gujarat Marriage Registration Act' so that it will not be easy to register a marriage by hiding the identity or keeping the family in the dark. Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghvi has said these things in the Assembly and said that the existing rules are being misused.

What is the government's new plan?

According to the new rules, to register the marriage, the bride and groom will have to give a declaration of whether they have informed their parents or not. Names, addresses, Aadhar numbers and phone numbers of both parents will also have to be given. If the Assistant Registrar likes the application, it will have to send a notification to the parents within 10 working days – probably through WhatsApp or message. Then after 30 days, if everything goes well, registration will take place. Complete details will be uploaded on a new online portal.

Why was 'Love Jihad' mentioned?

Harsh Sanghvi clearly said in the House that "Love Jihad" is a "cultural attack." He gave examples of many places, like in Panchmahal district where there was not a single Muslim family or mosque, yet hundreds of Nikah certificates were issued. He says anti-social elements take advantage of loopholes to trap "innocent girls". The government is not against love marriages but will not tolerate fraudulent and forced marriages. Many social organizations had also made the same demand.

Who supported and who expressed concern?

Aam Aadmi Party MLA Hemant Ahir and BJP's Lovingji Thakor congratulated the Deputy Chief Minister. He says that the existing system needs improvement. But legal experts are warning that the change could conflict with personal freedoms and the right of adults to marry. The Supreme Court has already said that marriage of two adults of their own choice is a fundamental right. Questions are also being raised on privacy and legal validity.

What will happen next now?

The government has sought suggestions and objections from the public for 30 days on these proposed changes. Everyone can register on the website of the Health and Family Welfare Department. After that, final rules will be made. From a political point of view, this step can affect electoral equations along with social issues. At present, everyone is waiting to see what changes come after public feedback.

This decision is in the name of safety and transparency for daughters, but many people are saying that so much surveillance in love is not right.