Introduction:

In a groundbreaking and forward-thinking initiative, the West Bengal government has introduced a mandatory biometric registration mandate for marriages, effective from November 1. This transformative step aims to usher in a new era of digitized marriage records, combat instances of polygamy, and bolster the overall security of the marriage registration process.

The Rationale Behind Biometrics:

The decision to integrate biometrics into marriage registration underscores the government’s commitment to preventing bigamy and safeguarding the legal rights of couples. This innovative rule, applicable under the Hindu Marriage Act, 1954, and the Special Marriage Act, 1954, serves as a proactive measure against individuals, particularly men, who may attempt to manipulate their identities for involvement in multiple marriages.

The Process of Implementation:

Under this pioneering system, either the prospective bride or groom will undergo biometric registration during the application process. Upon finalizing the marriage registration, both partners, alongside three witnesses, will record their biometrics. Armed with fingerprint scanners, registrars gain access to the online marriage portal, enabling real-time registration within a 30-minute window.

Advantages of Biometric Registration:

The introduction of biometrics is anticipated to significantly diminish cases of polygamy and bigamy. The system’s proficiency in identifying individuals with existing marriages acts as a deterrent to fraudulent activities. Furthermore, the use of masked and encrypted fingerprints ensures a fortified defense against hacking and identity theft.

Legal Implications and Empowered Claims:

Biometric registration stands to fortify the legal claims of individuals, particularly women, in cases of divorce. By offering a foolproof method for verifying marital status, the system provides a pathway for securing alimony and prevents false accusations rooted in fake or forged marriage certificates.

Registrar Acclaim and Challenges:

Marriage registrars in West Bengal have overwhelmingly embraced the government’s initiative, recognizing its potential to elevate the integrity of the registration process. However, some registrars have raised concerns about technical glitches in the dedicated portal designed for biometric registrations. While the majority lauds the move, addressing these challenges is imperative for the seamless execution of the system.

Public Response and Application Metrics:

Since the implementation of the new rule, the Registrar General of Marriages in West Bengal has received an impressive 5,500 marriage applications as of November 15, with approximately 2,700 marriages successfully registered. The enthusiastic public response signals a readiness to embrace technological advancements in marriage registrations.

In Conclusion:

West Bengal’s decision to mandate biometric registrations for marriages signifies a monumental stride toward ensuring the authenticity of marital records and thwarting fraudulent activities. While challenges persist, the initiative underscores a commitment to harnessing technology for the greater good of society and legal processes.