Sikh
Marriage Act 2024
Introduction
The Punjab government in Pakistan
approved the Sikh Marriage Act 2024 on 25 June 2024, enabling Sikh couples aged
18 and above to register their marriages and divorces. This landmark
legislation, described as a historic day for Sikhs by Punjab’s first Sikh
Minister for Minorities and Human Rights, Sardar Ramesh Singh Arora, makes
Punjab the first province in the world to implement such an act. Arora noted
that Sikhs from other provinces and countries could now come to Punjab to
register their marriages.
In addition to this significant
step, Arora revealed that the Hindu Marriage Act would also be submitted for
cabinet approval in the coming months. He mentioned that he had been advocating
for the Sikh Marriage Act’s approval since 2017. The Punjab government has also
been working on removing hate material from school syllabi, replacing it with
content promoting interfaith harmony and diversity.
Salient Features
Ø Under the Sikh Marriage Act, both the bride and groom must be at
least 18 years old.
Ø A five-member Sangat will make recommendations on any issues
between the couple.
Ø The union council chairman, selected from the bride’s council,
will be involved in the process.
Ø Couples seeking a divorce must send a written notice to the
chairman.
Ø Both parties are required to provide a copy, and within 30 days
of receiving the notice, the chairman must form a conciliation committee.
Ø If the couple fails to reconcile within 90 days, a certificate
will be issued.
Ø This legislation addresses several legal issues arising from the
non-registration of marriages, such as the distribution of inherited assets.
Ø Effective immediately, the Sikh Marriage Act is a significant
milestone in recognizing and facilitating Sikh marriages within the province.
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has
emphasized the importance of prioritizing the rights of religious minorities,
highlighting the government’s commitment to providing essential facilities and
support to all communities
Positive Outcomes of this Action:
·
Recognition and Respect
for Minority Rights
The Sikh
Marriage Act 2024 by Punjab province is a significant step in recognizing and
respecting the rights of minority communities. It provides legal clarity and
protection for Sikh marriages, reducing legal ambiguities and empowering the
Sikh community.
·
Promotion of Interfaith
Harmony
This act
promotes interfaith harmony by acknowledging the unique cultural practices of
the Sikh community. It sets a precedent for inclusivity, fostering a more
harmonious societal environment and encouraging other regions to adopt similar
measures.
·
Commitment to
Progressive Reforms
The act, along
with efforts to remove hate material from school syllabi, demonstrates the
government’s commitment to progressive reforms. This paves the way for future
legislation supporting minority rights and interfaith understanding.
References:
v Reporter, The Newspaper’s Staff. 2024. “Kisan Card, Sikh
Marriage Act Get Punjab Cabinet Approval.” DAWN.COM. June 26, 2024. https://www.dawn.com/news/1841984/kisan-card-sikh-marriage-act-get-punjab-cabinet-approval.
v
Malik, Arif. 2018. “Punjab
Assembly Unanimously Passes Landmark Bill to Regulate Sikh Marriages.” DAWN.COM.
March 14, 2018. https://www.dawn.com/news/1395216.
v
“Sikh Marriages Act Being
Implemented, Says Azma.” n.d. Www.thenews.com.pk. Accessed June 27, 2024. https://www.thenews.com.pk/print/1203976-sikh-marriages-act-being-implemented-says-azma.
v
“Punjab Govt Approves Sikh
Marriage Act.” 2024. The Nation. June 26, 2024.
https://www.nation.com.pk/26-Jun-2024/punjab-approves-sikh-marriage-act-to-iron-out-the-wrinkles.