The Supreme Court of India has made a significant ruling regarding Anand Karaj marriages, directing all States and Union Territories to frame rules for registering Sikh marriages solemnized through this ceremony within four months. This landmark judgment aims to ensure uniform registration and equal treatment of Sikh couples across the country.
The Supreme Court addressed a writ petition concerning the operationalisation of Section 6 of the Anand Marriage Act,1909 (as amended in 2012), seeking uniform rules for the registration of marriages solemnised by the Sikh rite, Anand Karaj. The Court directed all States and Union Territories to notify rules within a specified timeframe and mandated that, in the interim, such marriages be registered under existing civil registration frameworks without any discrimination. Importantly, the Court observed that the statutory promise of facilitating certification and civil consequences for Anand Karaj marriages must be made effective and accessible to all citizens.
Key Aspects of the Judgment-
Mandatory Registration Rules: States and UTs must notify rules under Section 6 of the Anand Marriage Act, 1909, within four months.
Interim Registration: Until rules are framed, Anand Karaj marriages must be registered under existing civil registration frameworks without discrimination.
Certificate Specification: Certificates can mention the Anand Karaj rite if requested by couples.
No Duplicate Registration: Once registered under the Anand Marriage Act, no additional registration is required.
Implications-
Uniform Access: Ensures Sikh couples have uniform access to marriage certification nationwide.
Protection of Rights: Strengthens protections for women and children relying on marital status documentation.
Secular Principle: Reflects India’s secular ethos, treating citizens’ faith without privilege or handicap.
Special Directions
Goa and Sikkim: The Union government must extend the Anand Marriage Act to these regions, with subsequent rule-making within four months.
Nodal Officers: Each State/UT must appoint a secretary-level officer for compliance and grievance redressal.
Union Government Role: Acts as coordinating authority, circulating model rules and submitting a compliance report within six months.
These ruling underscores the Supreme Court’s commitment to ensuring constitutional equality and effective implementation of parliamentary statutes. This judgment is a significant step towards recognizing and protecting the rights of the Sikh community, emphasizing the importance of marriage registration for civic equality and legal protections.
