The Union Cabinet has recently approved the Registration of Marriage of Non-Resident Indian (NRI) Bill, 2019. The inception of this bill is a significant leap forward in ensuring higher protection for Indian women married to NRIs. It aims to function as a preventive measure against instances of harassment inflicted upon spouses by NRIs. The Bill will act as a welcome relief for all Indian women married to NRIs globally. The need to introduce this Bill was felt by the Ministry of External Affairs due to an increasing number of complaints from Indian citizens, predominantly women who have been abandoned or subjected to harassment by their NRI partners.
Key Provisions of the Bill
The new bill lays out several provisions directed towards the welfare of Indian women married to NRIs. A few of these key features have been explained in detail further on.
Mandatory Registration of Marriages by NRIs
One of the primary fronts that the bill addresses is the compulsion of marriage registration. The bill mandates registration of marriage within thirty days if the nuptials have been conducted or solemnized in India. In case the marriage has been observed abroad, it must be registered at Indian missions or consulates. This provision ensures a legal record of the union and strengthens the rights of the Indian wife.
Amendment of the Passports Act 1967
The Bill brings forth a critical change in the Passports Act 1967. This amendment would grant the Passport Authority the power to impound or revoke the passport of an NRI if they are notified that the NRI has failed to register his marriage within 30 days from the date of marriage. This not only guarantees a speedy resolution of marital disputes but also precludes the possibility of NRIs deserting their wives.
Amendment to the Code of Criminal Procedure 1973
The Bill also makes a significant amendment to the Code of Criminal Procedure 1973. It empowers the Courts for the issuance of summons and warrants. The bill also includes provisions for attachment of properties belonging to the NRI, if he fails to appear before the Court and is declared as Proclaimed Offender by the Court. This amendment ensures that NRIs cannot evade legal consequences by using their non-residential status as a shield.
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Registration of Marriage | Compulsory within 30 days of marriage, whether in India or abroad |
| Amendment to Passport Act 1967 | Passport Authority can impound or revoke passport of an NRI not registering his marriage within required time frame |
| Amendment to Code of Criminal Procedure 1973 | Courts are empowered to issue summons, warrants and attach properties of NRI failing to appear before them |
Protecting the Rights of Indian Women Married to NRIs
The introduction of this Bill is anticipated to bring about significant changes in the life of Indian women married to NRIs. It aims to do so by providing a swift resolution system, maintaining a legal record of marriages involving NRIs, and disciplining those who try to abuse the privilege of being a non-resident Indian.