**Interfaith Marriages Without Conversion Declared Illegal by Allahabad High Court**
The Allahabad High Court has ruled that interfaith marriages conducted without religious conversion are illegal. This decision was made during the hearing of a petition concerning the alleged kidnapping and marriage of a minor girl at an Arya Samaj temple. The petitioner, Sonu alias Sahnoor, sought to have criminal proceedings against him dismissed, asserting that he married the girl, who is now an adult, at the temple and that they are living together.
Justice Prashant Kumar, while denying the plea, highlighted that the marriage certificate issued by the Arya Samaj temple for a minor contravenes legal standards. The court declined to annul the criminal case against the accused, who is alleged to have kidnapped the minor and married her at the temple.
This ruling specifically addresses institutions like Arya Samaj temples, which the court noted have been issuing marriage certificates indiscriminately, often for a fee, without following the necessary legal procedures. Such actions, the court stated, constitute a violation of the law.
Furthermore, the court instructed the Uttar Pradesh Home Secretary to initiate an investigation led by a DCP-rank IPS officer into Arya Samaj institutions that issue marriage certificates to underage or interfaith couples without conversion. A compliance report is expected by August 29.
The petition indicated that an FIR was lodged against the accused at the Nichlaul police station in Maharajganj district, charging him with kidnapping, rape, and violations under the POCSO Act. A chargesheet has been filed, and summons have been issued.
The petitioner contended that since he married the girl at an Arya Samaj temple and she is now an adult, the criminal proceedings should be dismissed. However, the state government opposed the plea, arguing that the couple belongs to different religions and has not converted, rendering the marriage legally invalid.
The court noted that numerous Arya Samaj institutions have been issuing marriage certificates for unions involving minors or interfaith couples without adhering to proper legal protocols. It emphasized the need for investigation and appropriate legal action against such practices.
**What is an Arya Samaj Marriage?**
An Arya Samaj marriage is a Hindu wedding conducted according to the principles of the Arya Samaj, a reformist movement that emphasizes simplicity and Vedic rituals. The ceremony focuses on essential Vedic rites, such as the sacred fire (Agni) and the chanting of hymns, and is typically held at an Arya Samaj Mandir. Known for being quick, affordable, and non-ritualistic, eligibility requires both partners to be Hindu or converted to Hinduism, with minimum ages set at 21 for the groom and 18 for the bride. Arya Samaj supports inter-caste and inter-religious marriages, provided the individuals are Hindu or willing to convert to Hinduism.
**FAQ**
**Q: Are interfaith marriages without conversion legal in India?**
A: No, the Allahabad High Court has ruled that interfaith marriages conducted without religious conversion are illegal, emphasizing the need for adherence to legal norms.