Dissolving a marriage within the Republic of India involves a series of legal procedures governed by the personal laws applicable to the individuals involved. These laws vary based on religion, and can include the Hindu Marriage Act of 1955, the Muslim Personal Law (Shariat) Application Act of 1937, the Indian Christian Marriage Act of 1872, and the Parsi Marriage and Divorce Act of 1936, as well as the secular Special Marriage Act of 1954. The specific steps and requirements differ significantly depending on which legal framework applies to the couple.
Understanding the legal framework applicable to marital dissolution is of paramount importance for individuals contemplating such action. It ensures compliance with the law, protects individual rights, and facilitates a fair and equitable resolution of related issues such as alimony, child custody, and property division. Historically, societal norms and legal structures in India placed significant barriers to marital dissolution, but evolving social attitudes and legal reforms have led to increased accessibility and acceptance.
