Abstract

The special marriage act of 1954 allows people from different states, castes, or religions to get married without having to convert to the other's religion. Except for the state of Jammu and Kashmir, it is applicable to the entire nation. The act's main goal is to promote secularism and societal harmony by creating a legal framework for weddings between members of different religions and castes. A 30-day notice of intent to marry must be sent by couples intending to get married under the special marriage act to the marriage officer of the district where at least one of them has lived. Opposition to the planned marriage may be voiced during this notice period, after which the marriage officer will consider, investigate, and make a decision. After the notice time has passed, the union it is possible to have the marriage ceremony. There must be a minimum of two witnesses present, and it may be conducted in whichever manner the persons involved choose. The marriage officer or any person authorised by the government performs the solemnization of the marriage. The couple receives a marriage certificate after the ceremony, and the marriage officer enters the details of their union in the marriage certificate book. Furthermore, for couples who are married under the special marriage act, there are provisions for judicial separation and divorce. The special marriage act, which promotes equality, secularism, and social integration in India, essentially functions as a secular law that allows people to get married despite state, religion, and caste lines.

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