How do I register my marriage under the Special Marriage Act in Bareilly?

Detailed Legal Analysis

To register your marriage under the Special Marriage Act, 1954 in Bareilly, you need to follow a set procedure established by the Act and local administrative guidelines.

The Special Marriage Act provides a secular framework for the marriage of individuals from different religions or communities and allows for civil marriages in India. Here are the steps and requirements to successfully register your marriage:

• Eligibility:
  • Both parties must be at least 21 years of age for males and 18 years for females (Section 4 of the Special Marriage Act, 1954).
  • Neither party should have a spouse living at the time of marriage.
  • The parties must not be related to each other within the degrees of prohibited relationship (Section 3 of the Special Marriage Act, 1954).
• Notice of Intended Marriage:
  • Both parties must submit a notice of intended marriage to the Marriage Registrar in Bareilly.
  • The notice can be submitted in person or through a registered post and must be signed by both parties.
  • The notice should contain details such as names, ages, addresses, and a declaration that they are free to marry.
• Publication of Notice:
  • The Marriage Registrar will publish the notice for a period of 30 days.
  • During this period, any objections to the marriage can be made by any person.
• Marriage Registration:
  • If no objections are raised within the notice period, you can proceed to register the marriage.
  • Both parties must appear before the Marriage Registrar along with three witnesses on the specified date.
  • Bring necessary documents such as identity proof (Aadhaar, voter ID, passport), age proof (birth certificate or school certificate), and photographs.
• Issuance of Marriage Certificate:
  • Upon successful registration, the Marriage Registrar will issue a Marriage Certificate, which serves as legal proof of marriage.

It is advisable to consult with a legal expert or a marriage registrar for any specific requirements or additional procedures that may be applicable in Bareilly.