SHAKTI STORIES

In 1955, the Hindu Marriage Act was passed. It introduced marriage as a legal institution for all Hindus, Buddhists, Jains and Sikhs. Under the Act, marriage was defined as "less of a religion and more a result of mutual consent". It also prohibited polygamy, and legalized inter-caste and inter communal marriages. Perhaps the most important concept it introduced was the idea of a legal divorce. It provided statures for alimony and maintenance payments, protecting women during the divorce process. The Act states that the bridegroom must be of at least 21 years of age, and the bride must be of at least 18 years of age, thereby prohibiting child marriages. Introducing the government into so-called "private matters" was heavily criticized by religious groups, especially given that Muslims and Christians do not have to abide by the same laws.