Gujarat Government Proposes Sweeping Changes to Marriage Registration Process
The state of Gujarat is preparing for a significant overhaul in the official registration of marriages, responding to persistent demands from various community groups. Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi has announced proposed amendments to the Gujarat Registration of Marriages Act, aiming to integrate the family unit directly into the legal documentation of marital unions.
Stricter Verification and Mandatory Declarations
One of the most notable changes involves a mandatory declaration from both the bride and groom. Couples will be required to formally state whether their parents are aware of the marriage. This goes beyond a simple checkbox; the Assistant Registrar must notify the parents within 10 working days using contact details provided in the application.
The paperwork is set to become more comprehensive, potentially including documents such as parents' Aadhaar cards and the Kankotri (wedding invitation), creating a detailed paper trail for enhanced verification.
30-Day Waiting Period and Digital Integration
Quick registrations may soon be a thing of the past, as the proposal introduces a compulsory 30-day gap between application submission and receipt of the marriage certificate. During this period, key details—including wedding photographs and witness information—will be uploaded to a centralized state government portal. This initiative aims to digitize records and establish a clear, trackable system across Gujarat.
Sanghavi emphasized that once a couple applies, parents will be notified via WhatsApp and text messages through the portal. He stated that the goal is to safeguard parental sentiments while protecting the rights of all parties involved.
Community Feedback and Public Consultation
The government asserts that these changes reflect feedback from various communities advocating for greater transparency and parental involvement. However, the proposal acknowledges complexities, noting that mandatory notifications may not be universally welcomed, including by some lawmakers and couples.
With a 30-day public feedback window currently open, attention is focused on whether objections or suggestions will lead to adjustments before the law is finalized. This period allows for stakeholder input to potentially shape the final amendments.
