The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has urged the Law Commission of India to review and enhance the legal framework governing Non-Resident Indian (NRI) marriages. This call comes in the backdrop of international public law and private laws concerning NRI marriages, as per media reports.
Reports suggest that the MEA has recently commenced dialogues with the Law Commission to pinpoint and rectify shortcomings in the existing legal provisions, particularly those contributing to problems such as the abandonment of partners, especially brides, in NRI marriages.
The Law Commission is in the initial phases of crafting a comprehensive framework aimed at addressing these challenges, with a specific emphasis on closing potential loopholes exploitable by wrongdoers. This involves a meticulous examination of procedural requirements within the judicial system.
The Commission will also investigate the 2019 bill pertaining to the registration of NRI marriages and the Foreign Marriage Act.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has received a multitude of complaints addressing marital challenges encountered by Indian women wedded to overseas Indians. These concerns encompass abandonment issues within India, visa sponsorship delays, breakdowns in communication, spousal and in-law harassment, unilateral divorce, and disputes related to child custody.
In a bid to assist Indian women facing challenges, the Ministry, in collaboration with its Missions/Posts, offers counselling, guidance, and information on legal procedures. Walk-in sessions and open-house meetings are organised to redress grievances, with a particular emphasis on women. The use of MADAD and CPGRAM portals is employed to manage these concerns.
Moreover, Missions and Posts uphold a 24×7 helpline for emergencies, providing assistance through various social media platforms. Financial and legal aid is accessible through the Indian Community Welfare Fund (ICWF) for distressed NRI women, following MEA guidelines.
