Vivekananda Institute of Professional Studies

(Afiliated to GGSIP University & Recognized by Bar Council of India)

Grade A++" Accredited by NAAC, Recognized under Section 2 (f) by UGC ISO
9001: 2015 Certified Institution

Report on the Rights Of Indian Women In NRI Matrimonial Issues

Held by Vivekananda School Of Law and Legal Studies, VSLLS, VIPS-TC
In collaboration with
University School Of Law and Legal Studies, GGSIP University, New Delhi

13th February 2024

By: Aryamann sakuja Enrollment No: 12917703522

Section: 4M (BBA LLB)

Venue: Vivekananda Auditorium, VIPS-TC

Timings: 10:00 am - 4:30 pm
The opening remarks were given by Prof. (Dr.) Rashmi Salpekar, Dean, VSLLS, VIPS-TC
followed with a special address by Prof. (Dr.) TV Subha Rao, Chairperson, VSLLS & VSES.
The National Commission for Women carried out timely intervention, aided by various cases,
while Student Coordinators expressed gratitude to the dignitaries for an enlightening session.
The adage "physical injury is finite, but emotional damage lasts for a long time" was cited,
illustrating the enduring effects of emotional harm. Attendees were presented with narratives
depicting how women's lives are devastated by a few ill-advised decisions in a distressing
environment.

Furthermore, attendees were briefed on resolving jurisdictional issues and the application of
diverse laws in countries where women encounter matrimonial challenges lacking definite
solutions. Speakers emphasized the necessity for updating laws, citing outdated statutes and
foreign court judgments as inconclusive in India. Questions were raised regarding custody and
lenient legal systems, prompting calls for amendments to Sections 13 and 44A of the CPC to
align with current legal imperatives.

Key suggestions discussed included reviewing legal systems and provisions related to these
issues, granting legal entitlements to schemes, mandating registration of NRI divorces, ensuring
maintenance funds from husbands, and prioritizing the establishment of Rehab Centers and
counseling programs for affected women. Dignitaries were acknowledged for their contributions.

NRI marriages, typically involving an Indian woman from India and an Indian man residing
abroad, were clarified. Various awareness programs initiated in Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, Punjab,
and Delhi were highlighted by Mr. M Sakthivel, emphasizing the importance of seeking justice
internationally.

Sh. Lalit Kumar emphasized the fundamental role of empowering women in fostering prosperity,
underscoring the familial and emotional dynamics at play in such cases. Issues such as
background checks, prompt marriage registration, legal assistance accessibility, and the MOIA
scheme were discussed by Sh. P.N Khirmey, shedding light on the realities faced by women in
NRI marriages.

Prof. (Dr.) Alka Chawla stressed the need for amending conflicting laws to ensure justice for
victims, discussing the limitations of reciprocal agreements with countries like the US and
Canada. The importance of online platforms like MADAD and CGgram in aiding distressed
women was emphasized.
The Registration of Marriage of Non-Resident Indian Bill, 2019, was mentioned, proposing
compulsory marriage registration for NRIs within thirty days, with provisions to impound
passports for non-compliance. The need for gender-neutral laws to combat existing biases due to
lack of education was highlighted.

Sh. Mukund Upadhaye discussed the role of the Special Police Unit for Women and Children in
safeguarding the rights of women in NRI marriages. Dr. M. Sakthivel and his team presented on
NRI legal issues, patriarchal societal norms, and the rights of affected women.

Meenakshi didi from Brahmakumari’s addressed power dynamics, abuse cycles, and the
psychological impact on women in such marriages, stressing the importance of emotional
strength and mental stability for their upliftment.

The session concluded with an enlightening discussion on the struggles and rights of women
married to NRIs, leaving attendees better informed.