The Centre has taken a giant step on Thursday by making a decision making registration of marriages a mandatory thing irrespective of religion. This proposal was okayed by the union cabinet after having a detailed discussion with the prime minister, Manmohan Singh.  It has to be mentioned here that women would be safeguarded from harassments pertaining to maintenance after taking divorce.  Further, the latest amendment would also give recognition and social security to the inter-religious couples.  This would also ensure that proper clarity is obtained in matters that concern rights on children, the age of husband and wife etc. 

It may be noted that the Supreme Court and 18th Law Commission have already gave clear instructions stating that registration of marriages is compulsory in order to put a check to child marriages.

The Centre has also okayed for the long pending demand asking the Sikh marriages should be brought under Anand Marriage Act, 1909 instead of Hindu Marriage Act.  The Centre is going to table a bill over the same in the upcoming parliament sessions.  As of now Sikhs, Jains and Buddhists’ marriages are government by Hindu Marriage Act and therefore they are being named as Hindus in the official marriage documents.  These communities are reportedly expressing displeasure over the same. (Phani)