Parents to Get WhatsApp Alert on Love Marriage Registration in Gujarat

Gandhinagar | Gujarat — In a politically charged move amid mounting social pressure, the Gujarat government has introduced sweeping amendments to the state’s marriage registration rules, triggering intense debate inside and outside the Assembly. The proposed changes mandate that parents be informed via WhatsApp when a couple applies for a love marriage registration and introduce a 40-day waiting period before issuing the marriage certificate.

Presenting the amendment in the House, Deputy Chief Minister and Home Minister Harsh Sanghvi struck a firm tone. “We have no problem with love. But if someone becomes ‘Salim Suresh’ and misleads our daughters by hiding identity, we will not spare them,” he said, underlining the government’s stand on transparency and security.

Under the proposed Gujarat marriage registration rule amendment, once an application is submitted, complete details provided by the bride will be shared with her parents on the same day through WhatsApp. Sanghvi clarified that official information must be communicated to the girl’s parents within 10 days of application.

The new framework also makes Aadhaar verification mandatory for witnesses accompanying the bride and groom. Their photographs and identity documents will have to be submitted, and notarisation must take place in the physical presence of all parties. “If any notary strikes a seal without the presence of the concerned individuals, strict action will be taken,” Sanghvi warned.

A government-based registration in court will now be compulsory, and the marriage certificate will be issued only after 40 days from the date of application. Officials say this cooling-off period is intended to prevent fraud and coercion.

The state government is also preparing to launch a dedicated online portal for love marriage registrations, aiming to make the entire process transparent and trackable. “The system has been created so that those marrying with parental consent do not face unnecessary hurdles, and those entering love marriages do not misuse false identities,” Sanghvi stated.

The amendments are being framed under the Gujarat Registration of Marriages Rules following representations received by the Health and Family Welfare Department. The Deputy Chief Minister made the announcement under Rule 44 in the Gujarat Legislative Assembly.

Addressing concerns over post-marriage disputes, Sanghvi asserted that strict action would be taken in cases of dowry or property-related harassment. “If any girl is harassed for dowry or property after marriage, Gujarat Police will act firmly. Our aim is to ensure safety and legal protection for daughters,” he said.