The Government of Gujarat has proposed amendments to marriage registration rules that would require couples to formally declare whether they have informed their parents before their marriage application is processed.
The draft proposal was introduced in the state assembly by Minister of State for Home Harsh Sanghavi, who described the measure as an attempt to improve transparency in marriage registrations and prevent misuse of existing provisions.
Under the proposed system, couples applying for marriage registration would need to submit a written undertaking confirming that their parents have been notified about the marriage.
Mandatory notification to parents
According to the draft rules, once a marriage application is filed, the assistant registrar will be required to inform the parents of both the bride and groom.
This communication may be carried out electronically, including through messaging platforms or via physical notices within 10 working days.
Marriage registration would be completed only after a verification period of up to 30 days. All application details would also be uploaded on an official government portal as part of the process.
Government says proposal not against love marriages
Minister Harsh Sanghavi emphasised that the proposal is not intended to discourage love marriages but to prevent deception and ensure dignity in matrimonial arrangements.
He cited alleged irregularities in certain districts, including Panchmahal, where questionable marriage certificates were reportedly issued under existing rules.
According to the government, the proposed changes aim to create a more transparent and accountable marriage registration system.
Political and community reactions
The proposal has received support from some legislators and community groups, including representatives of Patidar and Kshatriya Thakor communities. The Aam Aadmi Party has also reportedly expressed support for the move.
The Indian National Congress has not yet issued an official response to the proposal.
Supporters argue that the changes could help prevent fraudulent marriages and protect families from deception.
The Gujarat government has opened the draft proposal for public consultation, inviting feedback for more than 30 days before finalising the rules.
Concerns over “Love Jihad” has shaped public and political debate in India, leading several states to introduce anti-conversion laws. Supporters argue that such cases often involve deception, coercion, or false identity, particularly targeting vulnerable women, and therefore require strong legal safeguards. In this context, the law enacted in Gujarat to prevent forced religious conversion through marriage is seen by proponents as a necessary measure to protect individual freedom and social stability. The amended law provides strict penalties, including imprisonment and fines, for conversions carried out through fraud, coercion, or marriage, and also allows authorities to investigate suspicious cases.
