Law Commission Proposes Mandatory Marriage Registration for NRIs

• 19 Feb 2024

The 22^nd Law Commission recently recommended mandatory marriage registration for NRIs and OCIs to address the plight of Indian women deserted by their spouses abroad.

Key Points

• New Procedure for Registering Marriages: The Law Commission suggests a new procedure for registering marriages with NRIs, including giving notice to the district Marriage Officer displayed for 30 days for objections.
• Revision of NRI Bill: The proposed changes aim to revise the pending Registration of Marriage of Non-Resident Indians Bill, 2019, to include OCIs and introduce provisions for punishment in case of non-compliance.
• Response to Ministry's Reference: The report was published in response to a Ministry of External Affairs reference to supplement ongoing deliberations on the NRI Bill in Parliament.
• Addressing Fraudulent Marriages: Highlighting instances of fraudulent marriages, especially affecting women, the report aims to provide legal recourse and protection against abandonment and financial exploitation.
• Risk Mitigation Measures: Alongside expanding the NRI Bill, the Law Commission recommends amendments to the Passport Act, 1967.
• It also recommends creation of a separate division in the Ministry of Home Affairs or External Affairs for NRI and OCI marriage registry.