In a significant move, the UT Administration of Chandigarh has adopted the Chandigarh Anand Marriage Registration Rules, 2018, mandating the registration of all marriages conducted according to Sikh rituals.
Under these rules, marriages will be registered under the Anand Marriage Act, 1909. The Deputy Commissioner’s office has commenced the implementation of the rules as of March 15. The newly introduced procedures allow applicants to apply for marriage registration both offline and through an online portal, ensuring a streamlined process.
Application Process and Required Documents:
Couples seeking to register their marriage under the Anand Marriage Act can collect the application form from the marriage branch at Window No. 5 on the ground floor of the Deputy Commissioner’s office in Sector 17. The application, accompanied by the necessary documents, should then be submitted.
The documents required for registration include:
1. Identification and age proof of the groom and bride
2. Certificate of marriage issued by the gurdwara
3. Identification proof of two witnesses
4. Photographs of the marriage ceremony and the witnesses
5. Affidavit for registration after 90 days, explaining the delay
6. Five joint passport-size photographs of the married couple
Online Registration Facility:
To facilitate the registration process, an existing online portal designed for granting marriage certificates under the Chandigarh Compulsory Marriage Registration Rules, 2012, will be modified. This enhancement will enable applicants seeking registration under the Anand Marriage Act to access the necessary services conveniently through the online platform.
Significance of the Anand Marriage Act:
The Anand Marriage Act, 1909 holds immense importance within the Sikh community. It provides legal recognition and protection to Sikh marriages performed according to Sikh religious customs and rituals. By implementing the Chandigarh Anand Marriage Registration Rules, the UT Administration aims to ensure that these marriages are duly registered, granting couples legal rights and benefits associated with marriage.
Conclusion:
The UT Administration of Chandigarh has taken a commendable step in implementing the Chandigarh Anand Marriage Registration Rules, 2018. By adopting these rules, Sikh marriages conducted in the city will be officially registered under the Anand Marriage Act, 1909. With the provision of both offline and online application facilities, the registration process has been made more accessible and efficient. This move ensures that couples entering into matrimony through Sikh rituals receive the legal recognition and protection they deserve.