Daily Current Affairs : 30-August-2023
In recent news, the Supreme Court of India has made an important observation regarding the solemnization of “self-respect” marriages under Section 7(A) of the Hindu Marriage Act, 1955. This clarification has far-reaching implications for the recognition and simplification of Hindu marriages, particularly in Tamil Nadu. In this essay, we will delve into the significance of self-respect marriages, the historical context, and the Supreme Court’s stance on this matter.
Understanding Self-Respect Marriages:
Self-respect marriages, also known as “suyamariyathai” or “seerthiruththa marriage” or by any other name, are a unique form of Hindu weddings. These marriages aim to radically simplify the traditional wedding ceremonies by eliminating the need for mandatory Brahmin priests, holy fire, and saptapadi (seven steps). Instead, self-respect marriages can be solemnized in the presence of relatives, friends, or any other individuals chosen by the couple. The parties declare each other as husband and wife in a language understood by them. Additionally, these marriages are required to be registered under the law.
Historical Context:
The roots of self-respect marriages can be traced back to the year 1967 when the Hindu Marriage (Tamil Nadu Amendment) Act, 1967, was approved by the President and became law. This amendment brought about a significant change to the Hindu Marriage Act of 1955 by introducing Section 7-A, which deals specifically with the provision for “self-respect and secular marriages.” However, it’s essential to note that this amendment was applicable only to the state of Tamil Nadu.
The Aim of Self-Respect Marriages:
The primary objective of introducing self-respect marriages through this amendment was to simplify the process of Hindu weddings and eliminate the dependency on priests and elaborate rituals. By allowing couples to declare their marriage in the presence of their chosen witnesses, whether friends or family, the amendment aimed to make marriage ceremonies more accessible and egalitarian. It was a step toward ensuring that the essence of marriage was not lost in the complexity of rituals and traditions.
Supreme Court’s Clarification:
The recent observation by the Supreme Court highlights a crucial point – there is no blanket ban on advocates solemnizing self-respect marriages under Section 7(A) of the Hindu Marriage Act, 1955. This clarification reinforces the legal recognition of self-respect marriages and ensures that they can continue to be a valid and legitimate way for Hindus to enter into wedlock. It affirms that the intent behind the amendment in 1967, which was to simplify weddings and promote self-respect and secular values, remains intact.
Important Points:
- Self-respect marriages, also known as “suyamariyathai” or “seerthiruththa marriage,” are a simplified form of Hindu weddings that aim to eliminate the need for Brahmin priests, holy fire, and rituals.
- These marriages can be solemnized in the presence of relatives, friends, or any chosen individuals, with the couple declaring each other as husband and wife in a language they understand.
- Self-respect marriages must be registered under the law.
- In 1967, the Hindu Marriage (Tamil Nadu Amendment) Act was passed, introducing Section 7-A into the Hindu Marriage Act of 1955. This amendment applied specifically to Tamil Nadu.
- The primary aim of this amendment was to simplify wedding ceremonies and promote self-respect and secular values.
- The Supreme Court recently clarified that there is no blanket ban on advocates solemnizing self-respect marriages under Section 7(A) of the Hindu Marriage Act, 1955.
- This clarification reinforces the legal recognition of self-respect marriages and upholds their validity as a legitimate way for Hindus to marry.
- It ensures that the intent of the 1967 amendment to simplify weddings and promote self-respect and secular values remains intact.
- Self-respect marriages represent a departure from traditional Hindu wedding ceremonies and emphasize simplicity, choice of witnesses, and the absence of priests and elaborate rituals.
- The recent Supreme Court clarification recognizes the evolving nature of societal values and customs within the framework of the law.
- This development ensures that couples in Tamil Nadu and beyond can continue to exercise their right to self-respect and secular marriages without unnecessary constraints.
Why In News
The Supreme Court’s recent observation clarified that Section 7(A) of the Hindu Marriage Act, 1955, does not impose a blanket ban on advocates conducting “self-respect” marriages. This significant ruling reaffirms the right of individuals to choose such solemnization without undue restrictions.
MCQs about Empowering Self-Respect Marriages
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What is the primary aim of self-respect marriages introduced under the Hindu Marriage (Tamil Nadu Amendment) Act, 1967?
A. To make weddings more elaborate and ritualistic.
B. To eliminate the need for priests and simplify wedding ceremonies.
C. To restrict marriage ceremonies to only immediate family members.
D. To promote marriages in languages not understood by the couple.
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Which Indian state was the Hindu Marriage (Tamil Nadu Amendment) Act, 1967, applicable to?
A. Kerala
B. Tamil Nadu
C. Karnataka
D. Andhra Pradesh
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What did the Supreme Court recently clarify regarding self-respect marriages under the Hindu Marriage Act, 1955?
A. They declared self-respect marriages illegal.
B. They imposed stricter requirements for self-respect marriages.
C. They affirmed the legality of self-respect marriages.
D. They mandated the involvement of Brahmin priests in such marriages.
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