The Gujarat government is preparing to amend the rules under the Gujarat Marriage Registration Act, 2006, to reform the system and check its misuse in cases of love marriages and elopements, and involve parents in the process.
Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghvi told the Gujarat Assembly on Friday that the changes seek to protect women, prevent fraud and restore transparency. He said the government had no objection to true love marriage but would take action against deception and exploitation. “There is no objection to love. But if some Salim pretending to be Suresh traps a girl, we will not leave them.”
He said the changes are intended to serve as a safety mechanism for women by preventing anonymity, coercion and practices that undermine Sanatan traditions and Indian wedding customs. He raised concerns about what he described as “love jihad.”
“Love jihad” is a term used by right-wing groups to describe an alleged Islamic plot to lure Hindu women, although it is not officially recognized by the courts and the federal government.
Sanghvi promised to take strict action in cases where women are harassed after marriage over dowry or property issues. He said that the government will request objections and suggestions from the public for a period of 30 days for the amendments. A committee will be formed to study the observations within constitutional limits and implement appropriate changes.
Sanghvi said parental involvement will be pivotal in registering the marriage. He added that parents will be informed upon registration and a separate electronic portal will be created for this purpose.
Under the current system, couples can quickly register their marriage by submitting essential documents and witnesses, without informing their parents.
Sanghvi said the system has loopholes that are being misused. “Anti-social elements hide their true identity and lure or trick women into relationships. Shocking details have emerged of several fake marriages in Panchmahal district. In villages like Kankudakoi and Natkwa, there is not a single Muslim family, but hundreds of nikahs.” [marriage] Certificates have been issued. “These cases have been investigated and strict action has been taken.”
Under the proposed rules, when a couple applies for marriage registration, especially in cases of love marriage or elopement, the bride’s parents will be notified within 10 days. The notification will require submission of parents’ Aadhaar details and verified address. Marriage certificates will be issued only after 40 days from the date of application, allowing time for verification, consultation or objections, Sanghvi said.
The government plans to tighten document verification. Couples will be required to submit Aadhaar cards, birth certificates, school leaving certificates, photographs and wedding invitation cards if available. Witnesses from both sides will also have to submit Aadhaar photos and details. It is proposed to transfer marriage registrations from lower level revenue offices. A dedicated electronic portal for love marriage registrations is being developed to improve monitoring.
The proposals come after three-month consultations under the law and Justice Minister Kaushik Vikria. About 30 meetings were held with community representatives as part of the consultation.
Patidar leader Dinesh Bambana welcomed the decision and said it addresses the long-pending demands raised through rallies, meetings and memorandums.
