In the backdrop of the diktats of khap panchayats, the Delhi Cabinet on Monday decided to simplify the marriage registration process in the Capital. Couples facing problems in other States will now be able to solemnise their marriage in Delhi and register it.
The Cabinet has decided to issue a notification to amend the Hindu Marriage Registration Rules, 1956, for doing away with the provisions in clause 7 for sub-clause 6 for registration of marriages in Delhi.
Earlier, for registering a marriage it was necessary that the parents of either the bride or the groom should have been residing in Delhi within the jurisdiction of the Registrar for more than 30 days. Now, it has been decided that in case of a marriage solemnised in Delhi, the condition of the clause that calls for residence of more than 30 days, will not apply.
Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit, who chaired the meeting, said: “We have decided to simplify the rules for registration of marriages in the city.” Though the government did not delve into the social implications of the decision, senior officials said it would make Delhi a “safe place” for young couples facing the wrath of their caste heads for tying the knot. The decision also assumes significance as in the recent past, young couples from several States have been victimised by their khap panchayats for either marrying within the same ‘gotra' or sub-caste, or falling in love with or marrying outside their caste or religion.
